Ollie Watkins singled out Victor Lindelof for special praise after Aston Villa defeated SC Freiburg 3-0 in Istanbul to win the Europa League and end the club’s 30-year wait for major silverware.
Villa produced an outstanding performance in the final as goals from Youri Tielemans, Emi Buendia and Morgan Rogers secured the club’s first European trophy in 44 years.
Watkins led the line impressively throughout the match and played an important role in Villa’s attacking display as Unai Emery’s side completed a historic night in Turkey.
The victory also handed Watkins his first major honour since joining Aston Villa.
Speaking after the game, the England striker praised both Emery and his team-mates following the club’s memorable triumph.
“It feels amazing,” Watkins told TNT Sports. “To perform like that was unbelievable. I felt like we really controlled the game and punished them in the end.”
Watkins Praises Villa’s Set-Piece Preparation
Watkins also highlighted the importance of Villa’s preparation on set pieces and credited coach Austin McPhee for the tactical approach that helped break the deadlock.
“I’ve watched many finals and I think set pieces are crucial,” Watkins explained.
“Until then it was a little bit cagey. We had a few opportunities and the game was open because they were going man-for-man, but we worked on that set piece unbelievably well.”
“Fair play to Austin McPhee as well. We left four players forward from the corner and suddenly we’re 1-0 up.”
The striker described the occasion as one of the biggest moments of his career and reflected on the journey Villa have taken under Emery.
“It’s an unbelievable experience and what you dream of,” he continued.
“Sometimes you go through ups and downs, but we’ve pushed through, secured Champions League football and now this is so special.”
Watkins Hails Lindelof Performance
Watkins also praised Emery’s calm approach before the final, believing it helped settle the squad ahead of the biggest match of the season.
“He was really calm today in the build-up,” Watkins said of Emery.
“Normally in league games he can be a bit anxious because he wants us to win so badly, but today he was calm and I think that gave all of us confidence.”
The Villa striker then reserved special praise for Victor Lindelof, who has filled in as a midfielder in recent weeks because of injuries within the squad.
“Youri controlled the midfield, and Victor as well,” Watkins added.
“He’s come in and played in midfield for the last four games and he’s been unbelievable. Man of the match today for me — Victor. Big shout-out to him because he’s been unreal.”
Aston Villa End Long Trophy Wait
Villa’s Europa League success represents the club’s first major trophy in three decades and another major achievement under Emery since his arrival at Villa Park.
The victory also caps off an impressive season in which Aston Villa secured Champions League qualification and re-established themselves among Europe’s top clubs.
