Aston Villa’s royal approval: Prince William dances to Sweet Caroline and fist-pumps as he celebrates his beloved side reaching the Europa League final with dominant victory over Nottingham Forest
Prince William’s raw emotion was on full display on Thursday night after he watched his beloved Aston Villa team reach the Europa League final.
The Prince of Wales attended the semi-final second leg at Villa Park and was a beacon of joy in the first leg following their 4-0 victory over rivals Nottingham Forest.
The full-time whistle sparked mass hysteria at Villa Park and the future King of the United Kingdom was part of it when he was photographed clapping enthusiastically and celebrating with those nearby.
He also participated in the post-match singing sessions, singing Neil Diamond’s 1969 classic Sweet Caroline, which was blasted on the Tannoy, with other fans for the TNT Sports cameras, which will broadcast the final in Istanbul on May 20.
The joy was the exact opposite of his pre-match calm state. He was seen speaking to Villa boss Unai Emery during the build-up to the game and later chatting to England head coach Thomas Tuchel.
But after the match started, his first nerves were visible as he puffed out his cheeks in a photo taken during the match.
Prince William was all smiles as he saw his Aston Villa team reach the Europa League final
His raw emotion was clearly visible as he scored Villa’s third goal against Nottingham Forest on Thursday.
The Prince of Wales can look forward to his side’s clash with German side Freiburg on May 20
These concerns were calmed somewhat when Ollie Watkins scored from the penalty spot in the 36th minute, putting Villa ahead 1-1 on aggregate.
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Prince William had an interesting conversation with Aston Villa manager Unai Emery before the match.
Before the match, the future king of England spoke with England coach Thomas Tuchel.
