Former Aston Villa manager Dean Smith has sent a video message from his base in Charlotte, North Carolina, to his old club ahead of their Europa League final against Freiburg in Istanbul. Smith, now the manager of Charlotte FC and a lifelong Villa fan, expressed his hope that the trophy would return to Birmingham.
Smith's Classy Message
In the video, Smith said: "A message to Unai and the boys and everybody at Aston Villa, from Charlotte FC, good luck and bring the Europa League back to Birmingham. Up the Villa." His message came just hours before the highly anticipated final, where Unai Emery's team is the overwhelming favorite to secure their first European trophy since the European Cup in 1982.
Support from Famous Fans
Smith joined a growing list of famous Villa supporters sending goodwill messages, including Hollywood star Tom Hanks. Hanks sent a voice note to the BBC, saying: "This is Tom Hanks in the United States of America, thinking one thing and one thing only, go Villa." Harry Potter actor David Bradley, a Villa fan since 1994, also shared his support, recalling how he started watching the team after his contract with the Royal Shakespeare Company ended.
Prince William, the Prince of Wales, who watched Villa's 4-0 victory over Nottingham Forest from the stands, also tweeted: "Come on Villa! Good luck in tonight's Europa League final." He had celebrated with the team and manager Unai Emery after the match, with Emery noting: "He was in the dressing room with the players and with me, and of course, he is so happy as well."
Historic Final
Thousands of Villa fans have descended on Istanbul for the final, which marks a historic moment for the club. Villa's last major European triumph came 44 years ago, and a victory would be a crowning achievement for Emery's tenure.
For comprehensive coverage of Aston Villa, including match reports, press conferences, and transfer news, follow dedicated reporter John Townley on X. Sign up for the free daily Aston Villa newsletter to receive key stories in your inbox, or join the WhatsApp group for breaking updates. The weekly podcast, Claret and Blue, is available on all major streaming services.
