What was supposed to be a fresh start in Spain is quickly turning into another nightmare for Harvey Elliott, with the Liverpool midfielder now facing the possibility of having his Valencia loan cut short after a disastrous opening few months.

The 23-year-old arrived at the Mestalla in September hoping to rediscover his confidence and secure the regular football that had eluded him during a frustrating spell at Aston Villa.

However, just two months into his season-long loan, Elliott finds himself battling for minutes, struggling to adapt and facing serious questions over his future.

According to Valencia expert Julian Burgos, speaking to the Daily Mail, the Spanish outfit could explore terminating the midfielder's loan agreement in January.

Burgos described Elliott as a "significant disappointment", suggesting he has failed to meet expectations despite arriving with Liverpool's reputation behind him. 

Elliott's problems began almost immediately, with Spanish reports suggesting he arrived below the physical condition expected of him. Although his fitness has reportedly improved, opportunities have remained limited.

The midfielder has managed just six La Liga appearances, all from the bench, accumulating 152 minutes without registering a goal or assist.

Competition for places has also proved problematic, with Javi Guerra among those preferred in Valencia's attacking midfield positions. 

Matters worsened when Carlos Corberan, whose conversations had helped convince Elliott to join Valencia, was dismissed alongside sporting chief Ron Gourlay.

That upheaval left the Liverpool loanee attempting to impress an entirely new coaching setup while Valencia struggled near the bottom of La Liga. 

Elliott's frustrations boiled over during Valencia's 2-1 defeat against Villarreal on 24th October.

Introduced as a second-half substitute, the midfielder received two yellow cards in quick succession, the second for dissent, earning the first dismissal of his senior career.

New manager Javier Aguirre criticised the incident, describing the dismissal as "absurd, ridiculous", while Elliott subsequently apologised publicly. 

What Happens Next?

Valencia's precarious league position and appointment of sporting director Braulio Vazquez have added further uncertainty.

With the club looking to reduce its wage commitments and reshape the squad, Elliott could become an unfortunate casualty of their January plans.

For Liverpool, another unsuccessful loan would represent a worrying setback for a player once considered among Anfield's brightest prospects.

After making just nine appearances during his previous spell at Aston Villa, Elliott desperately needs stability and consistent football.

With January approaching, the midfielder faces a crucial period to convince Valencia he deserves another chance.

Otherwise, his Spanish adventure could end almost as quickly as it began. 

Should Harvey Elliot return to Liverpool in January? Leave your thoughts and comments below.