Ezri Konsa discusses Prince William's support for Aston Villa: 'Caught in the moment'
Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa shares insights on backing they've received from Prince William as they prepare for Europa League final
Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa has shared insights on the encouragement his club has received from Prince William ahead of their Europa League final.
The Prince of Wales plans to journey to Istanbul this week to witness Aston Villa playing in their first major European final in more than 40 years.
Wednesday's Europa League match against the German team Freiburg is Villa's most significant continental game since their European Cup win over Bayern Munich in Rotterdam back in 1982.
Prince William was born less than a month after that memorable victory.
The Birmingham club is eager to end a long wait for silverware, having last won a trophy by beating Leeds United in the 1996 League Cup final at Wembley.
During that time, the future monarch was just 13 years old.
Defender Ezri Konsa has given an intriguing look into the royal fan's commitment to the team in preparation for the final.
"Ever since I joined, he's shown amazing support, visiting the dressing room and giving us complete respect," the centre-back mentioned.
Konsa disclosed that William once referred to him as a "Rolls-Royce" — a compliment that clearly resonated with him.
"That stuck in my mind, and it's nice," he confessed.
The England player talked about the unusual experience of encountering royalty on game days.
"Sometimes you're caught in the moment, and you go home thinking, 'wow, I just shook his hand, and he knows my name and everything'," Konsa elaborated.
He added that receiving such high-profile support is beneficial to both the club and the players.
Konsa also pointed out that some teammates from abroad were initially unaware of the heir to the throne's identity.
"Some of the players didn't know who he was initially, as they're from various countries, so for them to learn about him and recognize him is significant," he stated.
Prince William's passion for Villa dates back to his school years.
Earlier this month, he was seen at Villa Park as Unai Emery's squad overcame Nottingham Forest in the second-leg semi-final of the Europa League.