Football chants are more than melodies—they’re anthems of passion, creativity, and the lifeblood of fan culture. Every now and then, a chant emerges that goes beyond the stands and becomes a cultural phenomenon. That’s exactly what Aston Villa fans have done with their ode to Matty Cash, a chant that took over Leipzig just before Villa’s thrilling 3-2 Champions League victory, wherein Jon Duran starred yet again.
But what’s the song it is being sung to? What are the lyrics? What is the story behind this chant? What makes it so groovy? Why is Matty Cash so adored by the claret and blue faithful? And how has this anthem become the soundtrack to Villa’s European adventures? Let’s dive into all of that today.
Villa’s European Resurgence
It’s been a rollercoaster for Aston Villa. Just a few years ago, they were grinding it out in the Championship. Today, under the masterful guidance of Unai Emery, they’re soaring high—third in their Champions League group, ahead of some of Europe’s big names, and sitting pretty in sixth in the Premier League.
And in the middle of it all is Matty Cash. The English-turned-Polish right-back isn’t just any player; he’s a symbol of resilience and evolution. Having joined Villa back just after their Championship days, Cash has outlasted big-name signings, solidifying his place as a starter and a fan favorite. So, it’s no wonder the Villa faithful have immortalized him with this brilliant chant. But, where was this chant sung, and what tune is it being sung to? Let’s know a bit more about that.
The Leipzig Pub Serenade
Moments before Villa’s dramatic 3-2 win over Leipzig, Villa fans gathered at the iconic Spizz bar in the heart of the city. The mood was euphoric. Before their big away fixture against the German club, the fans didn’t just celebrate; they turned the night into an unforgettable concert, with their Matty Cash anthem taking center stage.
With glasses raised high and voices even higher, they belted out the now-famous lyrics, sung to the tune of Norman Greenbaum’s Spirit in the Sky:
“He’s our right-back; he’s our number two.
Signed for Villa, the Polish Cafu,
Down the right and he loves to attack,
And he goes by the name of Matty Cash.”
It wasn’t just a chant; it was a moment—a spontaneous eruption of joy and camaraderie that perfectly encapsulated what it means to follow your team away in Europe. Especially if your club isn’t in the traditional top 6 in the Premier League, wherein you are not used to such outings. Add that with the iconic tune of Norman Greenbaum and some raw Birmingham passion, and this chant is already one for the ages. Villians have sung this chant not for the first time though. It has been a fan favourite for years now, sung across stadiums, pubs, and bars.
Well, now that we know about the chant itself, let’s get to know more about the song and the artist who created this masterpiece.
The Legacy of “Spirit in the Sky”
“Spirit in the Sky,” released as a single in December 1969, marked Norman Greenbaum’s most significant contribution to rock music. Inspired by a gospel performance he saw on television, Greenbaum crafted the song in just 15 minutes, blending unlikely gospel-inspired lyrics with a distinct fuzz guitar tune. Despite his Orthodox Jewish background, the song’s refrain—“I’ve got a friend in Jesus”—combined with its innovative sound, struck a chord globally, reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1970.
Over the years, it has been featured in movies like Guardians of the Galaxy and commercials for brands like Nike, ensuring its timeless appeal and consistent royalties for Greenbaum. The song’s unique combination of spirituality and rock has cemented its place in pop culture
Further enriching its legacy, the tune of “Spirit in the Sky” has inspired football chants across the world. One notable adaptation is Manchester United fans’ tribute to George Best, one of Britain’s most iconic footballers.
Fans React: The Groovy Side of Social Media
The internet, as always, had its say. Clips of the pub serenade quickly went viral, and Villa fans flooded social media with their reactions.
One fan proudly declared, “He is our right-back, he’s our no. 2. #AVFC Leipzig away.” A simple yet powerful statement, cementing Cash as a cornerstone of Villa’s success.
Another was torn between the energy of the chant and its quirky captions: “Not sure what I enjoy more. The singing or the captions 😂.”
For some, it was all about location. When one fan asked, “What bar is this, please??” the answer came swiftly: “Spizz.” A pub now etched in Villa folklore.
Others used the moment to highlight the irony of football fandom. “Wonder how many of these hate Cash on Twitter 👀😂,” remarked one fan, poking fun at the fickle nature of social media.
Amidst the humor, there were heartfelt sentiments: “I hope Europe lasts forever, man. No one deserves it more than Villa.” Years of struggle have made moments like these all the sweeter for the Villa faithful.
Some kept it short and sweet and just adored the very nature of the tune: “Such a good song.”
And finally, one fan captured the essence of the night perfectly: “Villa fans are actually living the dream following their club away in Europe.”
Matty Cash: The Polish Cafu
The beauty of this chant lies not just in its tune but in its subject. Matty Cash isn’t just a player; he’s a symbol of Villa’s journey. From his Championship days to becoming a Champions League regular, Cash’s rise mirrors the club’s resurgence.
Dubbed “The Polish Cafu” by fans, Cash is known for his relentless energy, defensive solidity, and attacking flair. Whether he’s bombing down the right flank or making crucial tackles, he’s become an indispensable part of Emery’s squad. The chant is a celebration of this journey—a way for fans to show their love and admiration for a player who’s given them so much joy.
Football is about moments, and nights like Leipzig are what fans live for. The Matty Cash chant is more than a song; it’s a testament to the unbreakable bond between players and supporters, a tribute to Villa’s journey from the Championship to the Champions League.
As Villa continue their European adventure, this anthem will undoubtedly echo across stadiums and bars alike, a reminder of the joy, passion, and sheer magic of following your team. So here’s to Matty Cash, the Polish Cafu, and the claret and blue army—living the dream, one chant at a time.
