They’ve done it! Having overturned a one-goal deficit against their Midlands rivals to beat Nottingham Forest 4-1 on aggregate in the semi-final second leg, Aston Villa are in their first European final in over 40 years.
The Villans are now just one win away from Europa glory in Istanbul—which would be the team’s first taste of silverware since the League Cup in 1996, and first European trophy since the European Super Cup in 1983.
But first, Unai Emery’s men must overcome Sporting Freiburg in the UEFA Europa League final to be played on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Beşiktaş Stadium in Turkey. But Villa has history on its side.
Aston Villa won the European Cup in 1982 (today known as the Champions League), while in more recent years, the manager has won four Europa League titles (three with Sevilla, and one with Villarreal)—although he lost the 2019 final with Arsenal.
Whatever the outcome, we imagine most of Birmingham will be glued to their screens in less than two weeks (even those hate-watching as a Blues fan), with the game screening on TNT Sports and HBO Max, with an 8pm kick-off.
But you’re going to want to get to the pub to watch it to properly soak up the atmosphere. Or better yet, why not get down to Luna Springs? Where 4TheFans is bringing Aston Villa fans together for an immersive fan park experience.
With what has to be the biggest screen in Birmingham, world-class sound, a Sky Sports presenter, a Villa football legend providing analysis and banter, DJs, special FX and thousands of fellow supporters all under one roof, this’ll be the most entertaining watching experience in Birmingham!
To get your tickets to the Aston Villa fan park at Luna Springs on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, head here.
