Ezri Konsa has reflected on a memorable interaction with Prince William, saying a personal compliment from the royal remains one of the most special moments of his career at Aston Villa.
The England defender revealed that Prince William, a well-known Aston Villa supporter and regular matchday presence at the club, once described him as a “Rolls-Royce” player during a meeting at the team’s training environment.
Konsa said the comment stood out as a career highlight, adding that it left a lasting impression on him due to the unexpected nature of receiving praise from a member of the royal family.
The defender also described the Prince of Wales’ involvement with the squad as a unique experience, noting that his visits to the dressing room and interactions with players have become a familiar but still surreal part of matchdays.
According to Konsa, the presence of Prince William often adds to the atmosphere around the club, with players acknowledging the significance of having a high-profile supporter regularly engaging with the team.
He added that some squad members, particularly those from outside England, were initially unaware of the royal’s identity, but quickly understood his importance within English football culture and his strong connection to Aston Villa.
Konsa also highlighted how such moments become more meaningful in hindsight, admitting that players sometimes only fully appreciate the experience after reflecting on it away from matchday pressure.
The defender, who has become a key figure in Aston Villa’s backline in recent seasons, said the royal support reflects the growing profile of the club and its ambitions under current management.
Prince William, a lifelong Aston Villa fan and patron of the Football Association, has been a frequent attendee at the club’s major fixtures and has often visited players following important matches.
For Konsa, the “Rolls-Royce” comment remains a standout memory in his career, symbolising both personal recognition and the unique spotlight surrounding Aston Villa in recent seasons.
