Whether fans choose to acknowledge it or not, an element of luck is involved each time a club wins a piece of silverware. For Aston Villa, looking to win a Europa League title this season, that has already flipped in their favor early on.
Before Friday, there was some uncertainty as to the potential status of Crystal Palace in this upcoming season's UEL competition. As shared by The Touchline | Football Coverage, however, the club will not be allowed to participate as things currently stand. Instead, Palace is slated to participate in Conference League for the 2025-2026 season.
It is now known by all Villa fans how much of a thorn Palace has been in the side of the club. Even though they aren't playing particularly well during the season in question, Palace seemingly find a way to consistently get up for any match against Villa.
There are still plenty of quality sides in the tournament. Although many are looking to Europa League for the best chance for Villa to win a trophy, winning it all is far from a guarantee. It does boost the chances, though, when looking at one of the more significant potential obstacles now no longer being a part of the competition.
Fortunate break for Aston Villa likely to remain
In all likelihood, while there is still time, Palace will still look for a way to have this decision overturned. Considering how Lyon has been successful from their perspective, in terms of avoiding relegation from Ligue 1, it is unlikely that any efforts from Palace will result in their ability to play in UEL.
For Villa, looking to cash in on a good chance of winning silverware, this latest development can help to elevate optimism in terms of the club's aim of being able to lift a trophy. It is still far from a guarantee, but it would be inaccurate to pretend that this doesn't help Villa.