Luis Enrique has dismissed the idea that Paris Saint-Germain is clear favorite against Aston Villa, drawing on his team’s unexpected triumph over Liverpool as evidence that in football, there are no guarantees. Despite PSG being tipped to progress in its quest for a maiden Champions League title, Enrique points to the resilience shown by his squad.
The Ligue 1 champions advanced to the quarter-finals after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Liverpool. Despite a first-leg defeat at the Parc des Princes, PSG secured a remarkable victory at Anfield, setting up a clash with Unai Emery’s Villa.
Liverpool was not just considered likely to win the tie but was also seen as strong contenders to lift the trophy. Enrique, however, sees their victory as a testament to the unpredictability of the game.
He commented: “Aston Villa plays very good football. We’re going to see two teams with their own characteristics. I hope we see an open and complex match.
“Aston Villa is capable of coming out from the back, capable of managing space well, and they have the ability to attack with second-row players. This will require excellent defensive skills and great defensive efficiency from us. It doesn’t matter if a player is higher or lower; it doesn’t worry me.
“I would say this team is similar to ours in that they have a lot of versatile players. It’s difficult to know who will play, especially since they strengthened so much this winter.
“Villa has different playing styles. It’s a very open and difficult double header for both teams. I think it’s 50-50. Against Liverpool, everyone said we had no chance. There are two teams that can move up to the next level. We’ll have to do what it takes to qualify.”
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Looking ahead to the game, Villa boss Unai Emery said: “It is my first time back and it will be a special moment. I am very proud to bring Aston Villa back here in the Champions League.
“PSG is dominating in its league. It has just won the title played some amazing matches, beating Liverpool, who was probably the favorite, in the last round.
“Luis Enrique is one of the best coaches in the world. He showed it with Barcelona, the Spain national team, Celta Vigo and now here. I have faced him a lot of times. It is difficult tactically against him to impose what we want but we must try.”
