Aston Villa have been crowned the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League champions after a dominant 3-0 victory over SC Freiburg in the final at the Tupras Stadium in Istanbul, Turkey, on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. The win marks Villa's first European title since their 1982 European Cup triumph, and their maiden Europa League trophy.
Youri Tielemans opened the scoring in the 41st minute, followed by Emiliano Buendia doubling the lead in first-half stoppage time. Buendia then assisted Morgan Rogers for the third goal in the second half, sealing a comprehensive victory for the Premier League side.
Unai Emery's Historic Fifth Europa League Title
For manager Unai Emery, the victory represents his fifth Europa League trophy, making him the most successful manager in the competition's history. Emery previously won three titles with Sevilla and one with Villarreal, all clubs with 'villa' in their names. He expressed gratitude after the match, acknowledging the support from his former clubs Valencia, Sevilla, Villarreal, and now Aston Villa, but notably omitted Arsenal, with whom he lost the 2019 final to Chelsea.
Aston Villa's Prize Money Breakdown
The Europa League may be UEFA's second-tier competition, but it remains a significant revenue source. Aston Villa earned $4.7 million for qualifying for the group stage, plus $3.43 million based on their group stage performance. They won seven of their eight group matches, each win worth $490,000. Villa also received $2.818 million for finishing second in the group phase behind Olympique Lyonnais on goal difference, and an additional $654,000 for placing in the top eight.
Progressing through the knockout stages and winning the final earned Villa $23.69 million. The variable 'value pillar', which includes market and coefficient money, is estimated at $20 million according to Athlon Sports. This brings Villa's total estimated earnings to $55.29 million, although official figures will be released by UEFA later.
Additional Benefits of the Victory
Beyond the trophy and prize money, Aston Villa have secured qualification for next season's UEFA Champions League and a spot in the UEFA Super Cup. They will face the winner of the Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, both clubs previously managed by Emery.
Emery's Reaction
Emery credited his players for their commitment and seriousness throughout the competition. 'I was telling them in the dressing room, we need wishes, we need seriousness in this competition. To show on the field that you are the protagonist – and they did it!' he told TNT Sport via UEFA.com.
For comparison, Arsenal's earnings from reaching the Champions League final are approximately three times what Villa earned from winning the Europa League, highlighting the financial disparity between the two competitions.
