Kieran Maguire: Aston Villa could now ‘host European final’ after confirmed news
Aston Villa could host European finals when their stadium redevelopment project is complete.
That is the view of finance guru Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about Wes Edens and Nassef Sawiris’ plans to transform Villa into a globally recognised club.
The club announced their intentions to add 7,000 seats to Villa Park and upgrade the surrounding site on Tuesday (28 June).
The Sun reported that same day that the chance of hosting matches at the UK-staged European Championships in 2028 was a major factor in the decision.
Maguire explained that they could also host the Europa League final in future years in a bid to bring Villa to worldwide attention.
“It’s a statement of intent from the owners,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“Edens and Sawiris are serious in relation to their plans for Villa. It also allows them to potentially host European finals. Uefa went to Seville, for example, for the Europa League final last season.
“This is all part of building profile and making Villa Park more known to potential international sponsors. It’s something else to add to the CV.
“I think it also sends a signal to players and management about them being serious about breaking the glass ceiling.”
Villa earned £13million in matchday income in their last Premier League season that was not affected by Covid.
Maguire told Football Insider on Friday (1 June) that they could double that figure after the Villa Park revamp.
In other news, pundit tells Aston Villa to complete Conor Gallagher signing after £30m update.