Aston Villa Fans Celebrate Europa League Win in Birmingham

More than 20,000 Aston Villa fans gathered in Centenary Square on Thursday to celebrate the team's Europa League victory. The crowd watched players lift the trophy less than 24 hours after a 3-0 win against Freiburg in Istanbul. The parade started in the Jewellery Quarter shortly before 17:00 BST and moved through Broad Street to the city centre.

Hundreds of supporters lined the route, some arriving hours early to secure viewing spots.

Claret and blue smoke rose from flares as flags waved during the event. Roars erupted when the trophy was raised and confetti fell on the crowd. Manager Unai Emery told supporters the team was "delighted" to share the trophy. "This moment is really fantastic, our heart is your heart, your heart is our heart," he said.

Defender Tyrone Mings spoke from the team bus and described the post-match celebration. "We celebrated very hard," he said, adding thanks to the fans for attending.

William was seen at the match in Turkey on Wednesday. During a visit to Cornwall on Thursday he laughed when asked about the result. Some fans who traveled to Istanbul could not return in time for the parade. One supporter from Sutton Coldfield said the timing was disappointing for traveling fans.

Employees from Krypton Jewellers received time off to attend. One worker said the group felt "fantastic" watching the bus pass on Hall Street. A long-time supporter named Andy recalled attending the 1982 European Cup parade and said he was glad to witness this one as well.