Ferran Torres: "PSG is a step forward in my career and contacts began before the World Cup"

Ferran Torres broke his silence on Thursday during PSG's Media Day and revealed the inside story of his arrival in the French capital. The 26-year-old striker left FC Barcelona after four and a half seasons to sign for the reigning European champions, admitting that the first contacts took place even before the World Cup. A deal worth close to 50 million euros that presents the Spanish international with the biggest challenge of his career.

• Ferran Torres confirmed PSG opened talks with him before the World Cup.
• The transfer was completed for around 50 million euros.
• Luis Enrique and Luis Campos were key figures in convincing the forward.
• The reunion with Barcelona in the Champions League takes place on October 20 in Paris.
• Torres feels comfortable as a number nine but is ready to play wherever the coach decides.

A negotiation that began before the World Cup

PSG's newest attacking addition explained how his move to the Parc des Princes came about: "PSG's contacts began even before the World Cup. They called us and we talked. Then I had already made my decision because I wanted to play for a club like PSG. It is a step forward in my career and I am super proud because I am joining the champions of Europe."

Torres also played down the influence of his role in Spain's World Cup triumph, where he scored the decisive goal in the final against Argentina. Although his value skyrocketed after that strike, the forward suggested his future was already well on track long before that moment.

The decisive role of Luis Enrique and Luis Campos in his PSG transfer

The duo formed by Luis Enrique and Luis Campos proved decisive in convincing Ferran Torres to take on the challenge of moving to the French capital. The forward was full of praise for the Asturian coach, with whom he had already worked during his time with the Spanish national team: "I have always said that Luis Enrique was like a father to me since I joined the Spanish national team. He has always believed in me and now he believed in me to sign for PSG."

The striker extended that gratitude to the Portuguese sporting director: "Both Luis Enrique and Luis Campos have been very important figures in getting me here. I am very grateful for the confidence they have shown me. I am still settling in, I have been here for two weeks and the only thing I can do now is keep improving and be ready for my teammates. I cannot wait to win trophies and matches at this incredible club."

The reunion with FC Barcelona in the Champions League

The draw for Europe's elite competition produced a blockbuster matchup: PSG host Barcelona on Tuesday, October 20 at 9:00 pm at the Parc des Princes. For Ferran Torres it will be a special night, full of memories from his four and a half years as a Barça player: "The match against Barcelona will be special. They were my teammates for four and a half years. It will be an exciting game for me and for the team. PSG-Barcelona matches are always special."

The Spanish international also analyzed the weight of PSG's recent history in Europe: "PSG is right now the best team in Europe. They have won the last two Champions League titles. And that puts more pressure on their rivals. We need to keep improving. We will try to win the Champions League for the third year in a row." Those statements reflect the ambition of a dressing room accustomed to dominating the continent.

Position on the pitch: the versatility that wins over Luis Enrique

One of the recurring debates surrounding Ferran Torres is his ideal position on the pitch. The player himself revealed what Luis Enrique asks of him and where he feels most comfortable: "Luis Enrique has always asked me the same thing, just like before. He has allowed me to play across all three attacking positions, and if you can play in several roles it is good for the team and for me. The only thing Luis Enrique has done is give me confidence."

Despite that versatility, the forward admitted where he feels at home: "I am comfortable as a number nine, I have played there over the last two years. But in my first match with PSG, Luis Enrique put me on the left wing and I scored two goals, so I will play wherever he puts me." A flying start that backs up his rapid adaptation to the Parisian system.

FAQ: common questions about Ferran Torres at PSG