Following the match between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa from the Europa League quarter final, former English international Rio Ferdinand expressed deep admiration for the Paris team, highlighting a significant transformation from previous seasons. He stressed that the PSG has transcended an image of dependence on individuals to become a united, coordinated and coherent group capable of dominating its opponents both in individual duels and in collective play. The demonstration of mastery displayed against Aston Villa, after eliminating Liverpool, confirmed for Ferdinand the positioning of the PSG as an undeniable favourite of the competition, thanks to impressive game control and rigorous tactical management.

The sports consultant particularly highlighted the PSG’s ability to stifle its opponents, impose its pace and exploit the slightest space left by the opposing defence, thus illustrating a maturity and discipline rarely observed before. Ferdinand noted the psychological impact of the third goal scored at the end of the game, which reinforced Luis Enrique’s conviction of the potential qualification for the semifinals. He also stressed the importance of the game back to Villa Park, which could prove a revealing test for Aston Villa, but which will also offer Paris Saint-Germain an opportunity to demonstrate its ability to punish its opponents in crucial moments.

In conclusion, Rio Ferdinand stated that Paris Saint-Germain has evolved, leaving behind an earlier perception of bling-bling to adopt a more solid, collective and ruthless approach. He acknowledged that the path to the title has not yet been completed, stressing Aston Villa’s ability to create difficulties, but expressed his conviction that the PSG has a strength and cohesion unprecedented in this competition, which positions him as a serious contender for European success.