Alan Hutton, former Aston Villa defender, has likened the club’s 17-year-old striker Brian Madjo to a young Wayne Rooney, expressing confidence that Madjo is ready to break into the Premier League just as Rooney did in his teens.
Madjo has notably caught attention during Villa’s pre-season, netting five goals across seven matches. One of his most remarkable displays came in the UEFA Super Cup match against Paris Saint-Germain, where despite Villa’s 2-1 loss, Madjo impressed by outplaying seasoned defenders Willian Pacho and Marquinhos.
Unfortunately, following this performance, Madjo sustained an injury that will sideline him until at least September. Nevertheless, Hutton remains optimistic about the striker’s potential impact this season and beyond.
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“Brian Madjo resembles Wayne Rooney when he first emerged,” Hutton told BOYLE Sports. “At just 17, he is physically prepared for the rigours of the Premier League, which is rare.”
He continued, “Aston Villa have been eager to see him feature in the Premier League, even taking the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Having watched him against Paris Saint-Germain, it’s evident why.”
“Considering the goals he’s scored during pre-season and his showing against PSG, he is set to unsettle Premier League defenders once given the chance.”
Hutton added, “He’s ready to face defenders head-on at this very moment. At 17, he dominated Pacho multiple times and could have scored a hat-trick against the reigning European champions. The goal he did score was arguably his most challenging finish.”
“It’s remarkable to witness such composure and strength from someone so young, and he is still developing. This is merely the beginning.”
“His movement is already impressive, and under the guidance of one of world football’s best managers, Unai Emery, I believe he will flourish. Imagine his progress by 23 or 24 if he continues on this trajectory. It’s an exciting time for both Brian Madjo and Aston Villa.”