Jack Grealish reacts to John McGinn’s ‘devastated’ message after Aston Villa loss
John McGinn has taken to social media with an emotional message following Aston Villa’s narrow 5-4 aggregate defeat to PSG in the Champions League.
Despite Unai Emery‘s side producing a spirted comeback against the French champions at Villa Park, ultimately their 3-1 defeat in the first-leg proved too much to overcome on the night.
The Villians made the worst possible start, as they slipped two behind before the half hour mark, through goals from Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes.
Villa did manage to turn the game on its head thanks to efforts from Youri Tielemans, Ezri Konsa and McGinn, however failed to find the final goal which would keep them in the competition.
John McGinn ‘devastated’ that Villa’s Champions League journey comes to an end
Following the full-time whistle, McGinn took to social media with a post on instagram (16 April), in which he said: “Devastated that our champions league journey has come to an end. Beyond proud of my teammates and everyone involved in not giving up and believing when not many gave us any hope.
“Villa Park was electric and it’s our job to make sure these special nights can continue. Thanks for the support throughout the competition both home and away. Let’s not stop here”.
The message was shown love from most of the Villa squad, including reactions from Amadou Onana, Lucas Digne, Jacob Ramsey as well as goalscorer’s on the night Konsa and Tielemans, plus Man City’s ex-Villa captain Jack Grealish.
Morgan Rogers replied with the word “iconic”.
A memorable night in the Champions League at Villa Park
Football Insider Verdict
Across the two-legs this was one of the most entertaining ties we have seen in the competition in recent times.
From top class strikes in the first game from Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to controversial moments in the second such as when PSG defender Marquinhos caught McGinn with an elbow, it was a battle that had it all.
PSG edged the possession in both matches as they implemented Luis Enrique’s controlled style, however Villa utilised their speed and ruthlessness on the break to create an engaging spectacle.
| Villa stats | PSG stats |
| Possession – 34% | Possession – 66% |
| Total shots – 17 | Total shots – 14 |
| On target – 9 | On target – 7 |
| Off target – 6 | Off target – 4 |
Prior to kick-off, there was lots of talk about Emery’s decision to start Marcus Rashford through the middle in place of Ollie Watkins, and what that means for the latter’s future at the club.
It almost turned out to be an inspired choice with Rashford setting up Konsa to put Villa 3-2 up in the match, however it will be interesting to see how this situation plays out with the league the club’s sole focus.
Villa sit seventh in the Premier League and host Newcastle in fourth next, in what will prove be a deciding match for both club’s hopes of qualifying for the competition next season.