European glory is up for grabs on Wednesday night as Freiburg and Aston Villa meet in the UEFA Europa League final in Istanbul.

Freiburg are aiming to complete a historic run with the club’s first-ever major European trophy, while Aston Villa have the chance to cap off an impressive season under Unai Emery by ending their long wait for continental silverware.

Villa enter the final following an impressive second-leg comeback against Nottingham Forest in the semis. John McGinn’s brace capped off the emphatic 4-0 place booking the Villains’ place in Istanbul.

Freiburg were also required to turn round a first-leg deficit in their semi-final against Braga. An early red card made things easier for the Bundesliga side as they went on to win 3-1.

There is a strong chance this is the only hope for either side to play Champions League football next season, as Freiburg finished their season in seventh place, and Aston Villa need to hope for at least a point at the Etihad on the final day, whilst Man City are chasing the title.

What are the best picks for Freiburg vs Aston Villa?

Aston Villa to win

Aston Villa have looked like the most complete side in the Europa League throughout the knockout rounds, and Unai Emery’s experience in European finals could prove decisive on Wednesday night.

Villa have more quality in attack, greater squad depth, and players who are capable of changing the game in big moments.

Freiburg deserve enormous credit for their run to the final, but Villa’s experience and composure should give them the edge in Istanbul.

Over 2.5 goals

Both teams have played some entertaining matches during their Europa League campaigns, and there is plenty of attacking talent on display in this final.

Freiburg are unlikely to sit back for 90 minutes, especially if they fall behind, while Villa have consistently created chances against strong opposition.

With so much at stake and both sides capable of scoring, this matchup has all the ingredients for an open, high-scoring final.

Ollie Watkins anytime goalscorer

Ollie Watkins has been Aston Villa’s go-to man in front of goal all season, and the England striker thrives in high-pressure matches.

Watkins’ movement, pace, and finishing ability make him a constant threat against any defence, and Villa will likely rely on him heavily in transition opportunities.

If Villa are to lift the trophy, there’s a strong chance Watkins will have a major say in the outcome.

Where can I watch Freiburg vs Aston Villa?

What have the managers said?

Julian Schuster:

“This is the biggest match in our club’s history, but we don’t want to change who we are. We’ve reached this stage together, and now we want to take the final step.”

Unai Emery:

“We are motivated, excited, and ready to compete. Playing in a final is something very special, and we want to enjoy the moment, but also be demanding of ourselves.”

What is Freiburg’s predicted team?

Atubolu – Treu, Ginter, Lienhart, Makengo – Eggestein, Hofler, Beste, Manzambi, Scherhant – Matanovic

Injured: Kyereh, Rosenfelder, Osterhage, Suzuki

What is Aston Villa’s predicted team?

Martinez – Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne – Lindelof, Tielemans, McGinn, Rogers, Buendia – Watkins.

Injured: Onana, Kamara, Edward.