Aston Villa’s journey to Europa League success
It's been an amazing journey for Aston Villa and their fans
Wednesday, 20 May 2026 - a date for the ages for anyone with an affinity for the club
Author | Peter Grainger
Around 20,000 fans flocked from Birmingham and across the globe, descending on Istanbul to witness a historical night for the club, as European glory was brought back to B6 for the first time since 1982.
Emotions in Turkey, and among those watching from afar, were a mixture of euphoria and relief - fans finally had a tangible reason to celebrate after many years and several decades of waiting.
A look at the player who's experienced so much for the club
There could scarcely be a more fitting figurehead for Aston Villa’s resurgence than captain John McGinn.
Now an established international and one of the Premier League’s most respected captains, McGinn arrived at Villa Park aged 23 in a £3m move sanctioned by Steve Bruce, at a time when the club were still fighting to regain their place in the top flight. Since then, he has become the heartbeat of the side, consistently surpassing expectations along the way.
His winning goal in the 2019 Championship play-off final ensured his place in Villa folklore, yet his influence has long extended beyond moments of drama. Through difficult periods and dramatic progress alike, McGinn has remained a dependable presence, bringing resilience and intensity whenever required.
Anyone who has watched the Scotland midfielder closely will recognise his wholehearted and uncompromising style. His commitment and drive have helped carry Villa into one of the most successful periods of the modern era.
There is, naturally, much to admire elsewhere in the squad, particularly among the players brought in during Dean Smith’s tenure who have remained central to the club’s rise.
To see a group that were celebrating Premier League survival in 2020 now lifting a major European trophy is a reflection not only of Unai Emery’s transformative work, but also of the leadership and resolve shown by players such as McGinn, who never abandoned the ambition of bringing silverware back to Villa Park.
