Pau Torres: Aston Villa’s Spanish Colossus in Defense
When a player is linked with illustrious names like Real Madrid, FC Barcelona and Manchester United, but chooses a reunion with a manager he believes helped him develop, it’s more than just football. It is the story of Pau Francisco Torres.
Born in Villarreal, in the Province of Castellón in the East of Spain just a stone’s throw from the Estadio de La Cerámica, Torres grew up in a football-loving family, as evidenced by his early enrollment into the Villarreal football academy at the age of 5, where he would transform into a specimen for centre backs.
By age 19, Torres had begun knocking on the door of the first team, inevitably doing so in December 2016, after a season of starring for the reserves. His debut was quite the experience, as he was the first Villarreal-born player to wear the team’s colours in 13 years. It was a proud moment, and one that perhaps changed the trajectory of his football career.
What looked like a blossoming career took a detour when he was sent to Málaga in the second tier. It was there he sharpened his skills, refining what existed. His imperious form helped the Andalusians into the Segunda playoffs, where they would fall short.
Pau’s 193cm frame had done its job, his height was complemented by great physical play as he navigated the murky waters of the Spanish second tier. However, it was his football intelligence that impressed the most. His life was about to be changed forever though, with Unai Emery appointed, wounded after a spell at Arsenal.
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The Basque manager had a heart-to-heart with his defender, and the instructions were clear, get comfortable and move the ball quickly in transitions. Simple instructions they seemed, and Torres duly delivered, helping his hometown club win a first-ever European crown.
At 6ft 3in, Torres complements his height with a good passing ability, due to his comfort with the ball to feet (No wonder he attracts the attention of the big wigs). His poise, and calmness is only bested by his jumping ability, with his success in the duels extremely immaculate. A defensive leader, he isn’t afraid to show his outspoken nature, organizing the defence like a gentle giant and making crucial interventions.
Since his Villarreal days, his noticeable impact reflects in team performances. It is no coincidence that his departure coincided with a drop off for the Submarines, as they fell from 5th to 9th after his exit, while Aston Villa went from relegation battles to firm European contention. He is that much of a force multiplier.
While he has yet to fully earn the full trust of national team selectors with just 23 appearances, Torres did partake in Euro 2020 and the Tokyo Olympics, going deep in both competitions. He is an ardent practicer of mindfulness and mental visualization, which helps him process games beforehand.
Injuries have stunted him in recent times, no thanks to a lean body frame that has now transitioned to a faster league and higher-pressure games. Always regarded as the ultimate team player, it is no surprise his teammates only shower him encomiums because who wouldn’t want to have Pau in their squad?
By: Tosin Holmes / @Cosimo_diMedici
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