Aston Villa midfielder trains in Italy while on holiday: ‘Warm welcome’

Aston Villa midfielder Ross Barkley has been training at the Stadio Valerio Bacigalupo in Taormina, Sicily, while on holiday and showed ‘great appreciation for the warm welcome received.’

English midfielder Barkley is spending part of his holidays in Italy, more precisely in Taormina, Sicily.

As reported by ANSA, Barkley continued training even during his time off at the end of the season, choosing the Valerio Bacigalupo for his workouts.

ANSA also reports a brief comment from the English midfielder, who expressed “great appreciation for the city and the warm welcome received.”

The municipality presented Barkley with a city pennant as a keepsake to commemorate his visit.

“It is always a pleasure to host champions of this calibre in our city,” said Taormina’s Sports Councillor Mario Quattrocchi.

“Even during his vacation periods, he chose to make use of our sports facilities and experience the local area firsthand.”

Football Club Taormina is the local non-professional team that plays its home matches at Stadio Valerio Bacigalupo.

They compete in Prima Categoria, which is Italy’s seventh division.

Barkley, 32, scored three goals and provided one assist in 23 appearances across all competitions this season.

His contract with Aston Villa runs out in June 2027.