Aston Villa claimed their first trophy in three decades with a commanding 3-0 Europa League final victory over SC Freiburg in Istanbul. Youri Tielemans and Emiliano Buendía each scored twice before halftime, while Morgan Rogers added a third shortly after the break to seal the win.

The triumph marked a record fifth Europa League title for manager Unai Emery, who previously won the competition three times with Sevilla and once with Villarreal. Emery's transformation of Villa has been remarkable since taking charge in 2022 when the club sat just above the relegation zone. The Birmingham side now prepares for Champions League football next season.

Prince William joined jubilant celebrations inside the Tupras Stadium, capturing photos as captain John McGinn lifted the trophy amid confetti. The royal Villa supporter visited the dressing room before kickoff, much to the delight of the players.

Freiburg's appearance in their first European final represents remarkable progress for a club that competed in Germany's second division just a decade ago. Villa's victory validates Emery's rebuilding project and restores the club to Europe's elite competition.