'It’s a proud moment for me on my European debut' - Jimoh-Aloba reflects after late Europa League heroics for Aston Villa

'It’s a proud moment for me on my European debut' - Jimoh-Aloba reflects after late Europa League heroics for Aston Villa

Hassan Abdulsalam 07:35 - 30.01.2026

Aston Villa teenager Kamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba said he is proud to make his family happy after scoring a dramatic late winner in a Europa League comeback victory over Red Bull Salzburg.

Aston Villa’s rising star Kamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba has expressed his delight after scoring a dramatic late goal that sealed a thrilling 3-2 Europa League comeback win over Red Bull Salzburg on Thursday night.

The 19-year-old midfielder, born in England to Nigerian parents, emerged as the hero after coming off the bench to net the decisive goal. This result ensured Villa finished second in their Europa League group.

Late drama at Villa Park

Villa endured a difficult night, falling 2-0 behind early in the second half and suffering a further blow when striker Ollie Watkins was forced off before halftime with a hamstring injury.

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With Unai Emery’s side in desperate need of inspiration, Jimoh-Aloba was introduced in the 66th minute and delivered when it mattered most, scoring with just three minutes of normal time remaining.

His goal completed a stunning turnaround that earlier strikes from Morgan Rogers and Tyrone Mings had sparked.

After the final whistle, teammate Amadou Onana guided the young midfielder toward the Holte End, where he received a thunderous reception from the Villa faithful, celebrating with a series of fist bumps.

What Jimoh-Aloba said

Speaking after the match, Jimoh-Aloba described the moment as one of the highlights of his young career.

“It’s a proud moment for me on my European debut. Really nice to make my family proud. I’ve had a lot of lows this season and a lot of highs, but this is the top. My mum is in the stand somewhere,” he told TNT Sports.

Jimoh-Aloba joined Aston Villa from West Bromwich Albion in 2023 at just 16 years old, having already represented England at the U-16 and U-17 levels.

He made his senior debut for the club in a Carabao Cup tie against Wycombe Wanderers in September 2024 and later signed a long-term contract in October.

Last season, the attacking midfielder played a key role in Villa’s FA Youth Cup triumph, scoring in the final against Manchester City. He also made his Premier League debut last month in a 4-1 defeat to Arsenal.