Prince William was every inch the passionate football fan on Thursday night as he roared Aston Villa through to a historic European final.
The Prince celebrated wildly from the stands before joining jubilant players in the dressing room after the club’s emphatic win over Nottingham Forest.
He watched from the stands at Villa Park as Aston Villa stormed to a commanding 4-0 victory in the UEFA Europa League semi-final, securing the club’s first major European finals appearance in 44 years.
Long known as one of Aston Villa’s most devoted supporters, William could hardly contain his excitement throughout the match.
Cameras caught the future king punching the air, jumping from his seat and singing along Sweet Caroline as the atmosphere inside Villa Park reached fever pitch.
Before kick-off, William was seen chatting with Thomas Tuchel, coach of the England national team, and Aston Villa’s director of football Damian Vidagany, reflecting the growing importance of the club’s European run.
According to manager Unai Emery, the prince joined the team inside the dressing room as the players celebrated the unforgettable night. “
William was in the dressing room with the players and with me. Of course he is also so happy,” revealed Emery afterwards.
The prince has often spoken of wanting to support a club with history and emotional connection rather than choosing football’s most dominant sides, and over the years he has become a regular face at Villa matches, both in private and in public.
