PRINCE WILLIAM hailed Aston Villa’s new highness – as his message hailing his heroes’ historic Champions League qualification went viral.
The first in line to the throne “can’t wait for next season” after Villa were ensured the Premier League’s fourth and final spot at Europe’s top table.
His favourite club will be in the continent’s top cup competition for the first time since 1982-83 – when they entered what was then called the European Cup as defending champions.
The Prince went straight on social media to share his joy at Villa’s royal ascent – after Manchester City’s 2-0 defeat of Tottenham meant fifth-place Spurs can’t catch his team.
Via his official account with the Princess of Wales, he posted: “We are Champions League! A historic season and an amazing achievement. Thanks to Unai, the whole squad and everyone at @AVFCOfficial. Can’t wait for next season. #UTV! W”
Villa players leapt and danced with joy in a video of Unai Emery’s men watching on a large screen at their end-of-season awards-do as City won.
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Defender Lucas Digne’s crazy revelling impressed viewers, while keeper Emi Martinez was on hand to shower his team-mates with champagne.
However, Ollie Watkins looked less happy – with some observers mischievously speculating that was because he’s an Arsenal fan who had just seen City virtually seal a fourth successive title.
Nonetheless, individual plaudits at Villa this season have focused on that same striker – as well as boss Emery’s awesome 19-month reign.
Watkins’ red-hot form means the Englishman could even have hopes of a Euro 2024 starting place, let alone just a squad spot.
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Meanwhile, there have been widespread calls for ex-Arsenal chief Emery to be named manager of the year.
Soon after completing the double over the Gunners, Villa roared back for a 3-3 home draw with Liverpool on Monday, thanks to sub Jhon Duran striking twice in the closing minutes.
And after Erling Haaland’s two goals downed Spurs 24 hours later, Prince William’s regal rejoicing spread the joy.
But despite his jubilant post on X, he was quickly corrected on his language by one royal jester.
That fan suggested the Prince should be chanting: “One is Champions League! I say one is Champions League!”
But as Pep Guardiola’s men look certain to clinch yet another crown ahead of Arsenal on Sunday’s final day, one fed-up supporter asked William to have a word in the right ear.
He wrote: “Can you tell your Dad to relegate City? Please and thank you.”
King Charles might be too diplomatic for that – but on the other hand he no longer has much skin in the game now that his favourite team, Burnley, have been relegated.
Supporters on social media were thrilled to see Prince William’s contribution to Villa’s joy.
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One said: “Imagine having the future King of England as one of your fans. You can’t beat that.”
Another asked: “Any room for me and my lad in your royal box next season, couldn’t get him a ticket all season.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
