Paris Saint-Germain forward Ferran Torres says he had already made up his mind to join the club before Spain’s World Cup final, although negotiations had not been fully completed at that stage.
The 25-year-old revealed that discussions between his representatives and Paris Saint-Germain began before the tournament, and said he was particularly encouraged by the club’s desire to sign him.
“Basically before, because we were already talking then, but it wasn’t 100% finalized. But I had already made up my mind by then.”
Torres has since made a striking start to life in Paris, scoring twice on his debut. He credited manager Luis Enrique and sporting director Luis Campos with playing a major part in his decision to move to the French club.
“Very well. I’m still adapting to the club and getting to know my teammates. Overall, Luis Enrique and Luis Campos played a crucial role in my decision to come here. To be honest, I’m very grateful for their trust in me.”
Torres has worked with Enrique during his time with the national team and described the relationship between them as especially important.
“Yes, I’ve always said that he was like a father to me when I was with the national team. So, the fact that he trusts me and brought me here makes me very grateful, and I must repay his trust with my performance on the field.”
The forward enjoyed a memorable summer, featuring in a World Cup final before beginning the new campaign with two goals for Paris Saint-Germain. He now wants to build on that early success and help the club challenge for more major honours.
“Yes, it’s been an incredible summer and a great start to the season. My only focus now is to keep improving and get ready with my teammates. I can’t wait to win more matches and trophies for this great club.”
Enrique has continued to ask Torres to provide cover across the front line, with the player expected to operate as a centre-forward or from either wing.
“No, they’re the same. He wants me to be able to play in all three attacking positions, which is very important. If you can play more than one position, it’s very beneficial for both the team and myself. So whenever he puts me on the field, I want to repay his trust.”
Torres, who has played as a number nine for the past two years, said he was comfortable wherever Enrique selected him. His first appearance for Paris Saint-Germain came on the right, where he scored twice.
“I feel comfortable playing as a number 9, and I’ve played that position for the past two years. But in the first game, he put me on the right wing, and I scored two goals, so I’m fine wherever he puts me.”
His next major test will be against former club Barcelona, where he spent four and a half years. Torres expects the meeting to carry significance for both him and his new team.
“Yes, it will definitely be a special match because I spent four and a half years there with my teammates. It will be very exciting for me and for the team, because matches between Barcelona and Paris are always special. We will do our best to win, but we’ll see.”
Torres also believes Paris Saint-Germain are currently the strongest side in European football and says the club’s recent Champions League success has increased the expectations surrounding them.
“Also, I think Paris is currently the best team in Europe, and Paris has won the last two Champions Leagues. We are under more pressure than other teams, because when you win, all eyes are on you. So we must continue to improve and prove ourselves on the field. Hopefully, we can win the thirdand for me personally, my first Champions League trophy.”
He added that Enrique’s attacking system gives the front three freedom to interchange positions, creating problems for opposing defences. Torres acknowledged that adapting quickly will be essential.
“Yes, here, no matter where you start, the coach gives the front three players a lot of trust and freedom to move. This is very beneficial for us, but it’s very difficult for opponents to defend against. So I have to adapt to this new way of playing as quickly as possible.”
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