Aston Villa stand on the brink of history as Unai Emery’s side prepare to face Freiburg in the Europa League final, hoping to secure the club’s first major European trophy since their famous European Cup triumph over Bayern Munich in 1982.
Villa have enjoyed a superb European campaign, losing just once throughout the competition while defeating Lille, Bologna and Nottingham Forest on their road to the final.
Their dominant 4-0 second-leg victory over Forest in the semi-finals showed the growing belief within Emery’s squad, with captain John McGinn delivering a memorable performance.
Aston villa posted via their official x handle images of their trainings.
The Premier League side also head into the final full of confidence after thrashing Liverpool 4–2 in a huge result that secured Champions League qualification and strengthened their momentum ahead of the final. Villa were also recently held to a 2-2 draw against Burnley shortly after their Europa League semi-final triumph.
Team news
Freiburg, meanwhile, are chasing the first major trophy in their history. The German side have been one of the tournament’s surprise packages, eliminating Genk, Celta Vigo and Braga while scoring freely throughout the knockout rounds. Julian Schuster’s men also arrive in strong form after a commanding 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga.
Villa have a few injury concerns heading into the final. Amadou Onana remains doubtful, while Boubacar Kamara is unavailable. Freiburg will miss Yuito Suzuki through injury, although most of their key players are expected to be available.
Possible lineups
Aston Villa possible lineup: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Lindelof, Tielemans; McGinn, Rogers, Buendia; Watkins.
Freiburg possible lineup: Atubolu; Kubler, Ginter, Lienhart, Treu; Eggestein, Hofler; Beste, Manzambi, Grifo; Matanovic.
How to watch
| Match | Aston Villa vs Freiburg |
| Competition | Europa League Final |
| Date | Wednesday |
| Venue | Istanbul, Turkey |
| Time | 8PM WAT |
| How to Watch | SuperSport, TNT Sports, DAZN |
Prediction
Softfootball believes Aston Villa’s experience, physicality and attacking quality could give them the edge in what is expected to be an entertaining final.
The outlet also believes Emery’s remarkable European pedigree may prove decisive again, especially with players like Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers entering the final in strong form.
Prediction: Freiburg 1-2 Aston Villa.
