Among the decisions that have to be made by Aston Villa, the future of Samuel Iling-Junior is an interesting one to continue to monitor. At only 21, the winger is someone who offers a lot of excitement. As of now, there aren't any signs of an agreement being imminent.
The latest suggests that something is being worked on, however, with the priority being on finding a solution to provide regular playing time. How that would potentially look and work in practice is unknown at the moment.
Since arriving from Juventus, Iling-Junior has spent time on loan at Bologna and Middlesbrough. Another loan spell elsewhere is not likely to be seen as a solution now. It could end up being the result of the Villa's interest in keeping the young talent while allowing him to see first-team action.
International intention for Aston Villa player
For now, his immediate concern will be with the Under-21 England team as they prepare for the U21 Euro Finals in Slovakia this month. The comments from the winger show his ambition and should spark optimism that Iling-Junior will eventually find a way into Unai Emery's side.
Iling-Junior commented, as reported by The Irish Sun:
"You have to put the 2026 World Cup in your sights and knock on that door or at least put myself in a position to be knocking on that door. There's a pathway and there's always someone watching."
It is clear that Iling-Junior is unafraid of the challenges in his way and views himself as someone who absolutely can make the Three Lions squad in the 2026 World Cup.
That goal specifically is, of course, a little more of a difficult undertaking. Considering who Thomas Tuchel has at his disposal now, and depending on who is available due to injuries a year from now, there could be a spot for Iling-Junior to realize his dream of playing for England when the side plays in North America next year.