Pau Torres
Pau Torres made his third start of the season for Aston Villa in their 1-0 Europa League victory over Bologna, marking a significant step in his return to form after a challenging period marred by injury and criticism. The centre-back had been sidelined for over two months due to a metatarsal fracture sustained in Villa’s final match of the previous season against Brighton. His return to the squad has been met with scrutiny, particularly following less-than-stellar performances in key matches last season.
Pau Torres said: “Obviously, you want to play every game, but at the end when Emery has his decisions, we need to respect him, his decisions, and then just work hard to have one opportunity and then try to play well when you are on the field. I’m the same as my teammates. Everybody works hard in Bodymoor. We want to play every game and that’s it. We needed that result in the last game, last few games. We couldn’t get that victory and we needed this result to as well get confidence again here at home, be strong. Now we have two games here at Villa Park in the Premier League and hopefully this win can help us for the next games. We need to feel stronger again at home, and try to win games. We need to add three points this weekend and we will fight for it. The team is always working like the last seasons with the same idea. Everyone is working hard at Bodymoor and today we saw on the pitch everybody fighting on the field and winning. We just need to keep working hard. We all have our ideas clear, our style, and we just need to focus, to believe in our style and keep going.”
Torres’s comments highlight his determination to regain his place in the starting lineup and contribute to Villa’s success. Despite the challenges he faced last season, including criticism for his performances against Crystal Palace in the FA Cup semi-final and the final-day defeat at Manchester United, Torres remains focused on improving and helping the team achieve their goals.
The upcoming Premier League fixtures at Villa Park present an opportunity for the team to build on their recent success and strengthen their position in the league. Torres emphasized the importance of maintaining confidence and working collectively to secure vital points in the coming matches.
Additionally, Villa manager Unai Emery is optimistic that goalkeeper Emi Martínez will recover from a minor muscle injury in time to face Fulham. However, Marco Bizot has shown his capability, stepping in admirably during Martínez’s absence.
Pau Torres added: “Marco did a really good game helping us with the build-up and then saving two, three big saves. Everyone in the dressing room knows that Dibu is the best in the world, but as well we have Marco when Emi cannot play, cannot be available, to help us. He knows his role in the team and he’s helping us a lot.”
Bizot’s performances have provided Villa with a reliable option in goal, ensuring the team’s defensive stability remains intact. As Villa prepares for their next Premier League challenges, the squad’s depth and resilience will be crucial in navigating the demands of the season.
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