Aston Villa's 4-1 aggregate victory over Nottingham secured their first European Cup final appearance in 44 years, since their European Cup triumph in 1982. For Sancho, however, this marks his third consecutive UEFA final, none of which have been with Manchester United.

Sancho in three consecutive European Cup finals, with three different clubs, none being his parent club Manchester United. *tefzon*

During the 2023-2024 season, Sancho joined Dortmund on loan from Manchester United following a period of disagreement with coach Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford. While at Dortmund, the English player impressed in the Champions League knockout rounds, helping the German club reach the final at Wembley.

In that match, Dortmund lost 0-2 to Real Madrid, but Sancho was considered a highlight of their journey to the final. He started and played 87 minutes against Real.

One year later, Sancho again featured in a European final, this time representing Chelsea. Under coach Enzo Maresca, he helped Chelsea win the 2024-2025 conference league.

Sancho played 41 matches for Chelsea last season, scoring 5 goals, two of which were in the conference league. While not a standout player, he was regularly utilized in the knockout rounds after Chelsea primarily fielded young players and a reserve squad in the group stage.

This season, Sancho joined Aston Villa on loan, continuing his unique connection with European competitions. Under Unai Emery, a coach who has won the Europa League four times, Villa delivered a convincing performance to reach the final against Freiburg on the evening of 20/5.

Sancho celebrates after scoring to help Aston Villa beat hosts Fenerbahce 1-0 at Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium, Turkey, in the seventh round of the Europa League group stage on 22/1/2026. *avfc.com*

In the semi-final second leg against Nottingham Forest, Ollie Watkins scored to equalize the aggregate score before John McGinn netted a brace and Emiliano Buendia sealed the victory. Sancho entered the match in the 86th minute and did not make a significant impact.

According to English media, Sancho's contract with Aston Villa is set to expire on 30/6, while his agreement with Manchester United is also nearing its end. This means the 26-year-old player could become a free agent just weeks after the Europa League final if he does not secure a new deal with any club.

Sancho's career in recent years has been paradoxical. He has lost his place at Manchester United, been continuously loaned out, and has yet to find a permanent home. Yet, in European competitions, Sancho consistently appears in the biggest matches.

By Hoang An