Ilaix Moriba Omitted from Celta Vigo Pre‑Season Squad Over Discipline

Celta Vigo left midfielder Ilaix Moriba out of the squad that travelled to Italy for the final two pre‑season matches against Sassuolo and Napoli. According to club sporting director Marco Garcés, the exclusion was not linked to his pending transfer but to disciplinary reasons: Moriba arrived late to a training session at the Ciudad Deportiva Afouteza and coach Claudio Giráldez decided to punish him by making him train alone.

The 23‑year‑old Guinean, Celta’s highest‑earner, is the subject of interest from Premier League side Aston Villa. Villa submitted an €18 million bid, which Celta rejected, stating they would need around €30 million. The club indicated they may lower the asking price to facilitate his departure, but any move will also require Moriba’s agreement.

Moriba joined Celta permanently in 2024 after a loan from RB Leipzig and has made 83 appearances for the Spanish side. His omission from the Italy trip highlights ongoing uncertainty over his future.