---
title: "Aston Villa news: Emery backs Barcelona for Champions League glory"
canonical: "https://readastonvilla.com/2026/11/03/aston-villa-news-emery-barcelona-champions-league-favourites/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Lucie Turner"
section: "Aston Villa Exclusives"
published: "2026-11-03T12:45:00Z"
modified: "2026-11-03T12:45:00Z"
---

# Aston Villa news: Emery backs Barcelona for Champions League glory

Aston Villa will face a tough test at Barcelona, who Unai Emery believes are in contention for the Champions League title. The Premier League side have an opportunity to pit themselves against one of Europe’s top teams on Tuesday.

Villa go into the league phase at the Camp Nou against Hansi Flick’s side. Emery has made it clear how tough a task awaits his squad. He has acknowledged the calibre of Barcelona.

He feels there are only a small number of teams who can win this competition, but Barcelona are definitely one of those teams. They have been playing brilliantly.

Emery believes that his team will have to display a lot of character to be competitive. Villa will have to play with discipline to handle the pressure.

## **Emery identifies Barcelona as Champions League favourites**

Barcelona have been a real threat in attack with Flick, and Emery feels they are one of the best teams in the competition this season.

Villa boss Emery feels they have got the power to beat anyone if they play at their best.

He also praised the potential of young striker Lamine Yamal, stating his belief that he has the ability to become the best player in the world.

But he conceded that there were still areas where Yamal can improve. He expects him to become an incredible player.

But Emery added that the threat at Barcelona is very much a collective with Raphinha, Pedri and Fermin Lopez providing an impact off the bench. Rodri provides great character.

Gordon’s pace is another attacking threat. Villa will need to stay on their toes against a very high-quality opposition.

## **Camp Nou brings back difficult memories for Villa boss**

The game also has personal significance for Emery, as he was the former manager of Paris Saint-Germain during Barcelona’s incredible 6-1 comeback in the 2017 Champions League round of 16.

After PSG won the first leg 4-0, Barcelona fought back in spectacular fashion to win the game at Camp Nou. Sergi Roberto scored the winner late on.

Emery has acknowledged that there was controversy around the game, but he has admitted that the introduction of VAR could have made a difference.

However, Emery will have his sights set on helping Villa to a good result against Barcelona.

## **Aston Villa face demanding European examination**

Villa will have to be disciplined at the back to cause problems for Flick’s side. Barcelona are an attacking team, and Villa will be punished if they make mistakes.

Emery will have to channel his admiration for his opponents into a performance that can cause an upset. Villa should look to target spaces when Barcelona play out of position.

Another opportunity for Barcelona to show Emery they are serious contenders for success in Europe.

Villa will know just how much is on the line here, but it will be an important test for them to see just how far they have come and what they can achieve in the Champions League.