Torres says Villa’s pace can threaten Barcelona’s high defensive line
The Aston Villa defender also called for defensive vigilance against Barcelona, who have scored 57 goals in 14 matches this season.
Aston Villa’s quick attackers could capitalize on the space Barcelona leave behind their defense, Pau Torres said ahead of the clubs’ Champions League meeting at Camp Nou. In an interview with Catalan newspaper Sport, he expressed respect for Barcelona but said Villa were not afraid of the challenge.
The 29-year-old singled out Ibrahim Mbaye, Alysson and Nicolas Jackson as attacking options suited to exploiting that space. Barcelona play with a high defensive line under Hansi Flick.
Torres said defensive alertness would also be essential for Villa to get a positive result. Barcelona have registered 57 goals across 14 matches this season, while Villa approach the contest unbeaten across five Premier League fixtures and having won all their European games.
Playing on the left of central defense, Torres could face Lamine Yamal while covering for attacking left-back Ian Maatsen. He described Yamal as unpredictable and said containing the winger often required more than one defender, making cover from teammates important.
Villa are level at the top of the Champions League’s league phase alongside Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Real Betis. PSG lead on goals scored and beat Barcelona 4-2 in the previous round.
