Overwhelming favorites Aston Villa take on underdogs Freiburg in Istanbul.
The Europa League final is finally here, and for Aston Villa and Freiburg, it is a chance to end a season on an incredible note.
For Freiburg, it is a chance to win their first trophy in 122 years since they were founded. The Germans have been on a storied run in the Europa League this season, their best run in the competition in the past four years.
This time, they’re in the final and could write their names into the club’s history. Freiburg have already found themselves in Conference League qualification courtesy of where they ended their Bundesliga season, but it could be upgraded to a Champions League spot should they beat Aston Villa.
Another special night needed 😤 pic.twitter.com/sbNNEPnUX3
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) May 20, 2026
This is a reality that Villa will not want to permit, as they are also looking to reach Europe’s premier competition.
Under Unai Emery, who is the undisputed boss of the Europa League, having won it four times, Villa have enjoyed a good run in Europe.
They were previously in the semifinals of the Conference League and were in the quarter-finals of the Champions League last season. Now, they will be looking to close out this campaign with a trophy and give their fans something to celebrate.
Team News
Amadou Onana is still a doubt for the final, and he is one of three expected absentees. Ross Barkley is ineligible, and Boubacar Kamara has been sidelined for the rest of the season.
For Freiburg, Yuito Suzuki is out due to a fractured collarbone, and Patrick Osterhage is a doubt.
Freiburg vs Aston Villa Predicted XI
Freiburg Predicted XI
Atubolu; Kubler, Ginter, Lienhart, Treu; Eggestein, Hofler; Beste, Manzambi, Grifo; Matanovic
Aston Villa Predicted XI
Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Lindelof, Tielemans; McGinn, Rogers, Buendia; Watkins
Hungry for history. pic.twitter.com/XTny63DLaa
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) May 19, 2026
Predictions
Aston Villa to win 2-0 and be crowned Europa League champions.
