Aston Villa defender Pau Torres has vowed to “make things difficult” for Spain manager Luis de la Fuente as he looks to earn his way back into the national setup ahead of next summer’s World Cup in Spain.
The 28-year-old, who joined Villa from Villarreal in 2023, has become a key figure under Unai Emery, helping the Midlands club rediscover form after a shaky start to the 2025/26 campaign. His partnership with Ezri Konsa has been a stabilising force, turning Villa into one of the Premier League’s most balanced defensive units once again.
In a recent interview with Telemundo, Torres and teammate Emi Buendía reflected on their World Cup ambitions, with the Spanish defender admitting he’s desperate to prove his worth on the international stage again.
“We have to make things difficult for the national team coach. Being able to experience a World Cup is something I was lucky enough to do in Qatar. It’s something very beautiful, and obviously, I want to repeat it.” — Pau Torres, via Telemundo
Torres Eyeing Spain Return
Torres’ international journey has stalled in recent months. Since his debut in November 2019, he’s earned 24 caps for Spain, but his last appearance came in September 2023, playing a full 90 minutes in a 3–1 win over Cyprus.
Since then, he has spent several matches on the bench and has been left out of Luis de la Fuente’s squads entirely in 2024 and 2025. Yet, his recent club performances could reignite his case. Villa’s defensive record has improved significantly, and Torres’ composure on the ball continues to make him one of the most technically refined centre-backs in England.
Numbers That Tell the Story
| Stat (2025/26) | Pau Torres |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 10 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Pass Accuracy | 91% |
source: Sofascore match data – 30 October 2025
Those figures underline why Emery values him so highly. A 91% pass accuracy from deep demonstrates how integral Torres is in Villa’s build-up play. He has also completed more progressive passes per 90 minutes than any other Villa defender, reflecting his natural fit in Emery’s possession-heavy system.
Why It Matters for Spain
Spain’s defensive pool remains competitive. Aymeric Laporte, Robin Le Normand, and David García are regulars under De la Fuente, but none offer Torres’ exact left-footed balance or Premier League experience.
Should Torres maintain his form, a recall before the March 2026 international break seems realistic. His ability to play both in a back four and as part of a back three makes him an appealing tactical option, particularly as Spain prepares for a home World Cup.
Our View: Torres Has the Mentality Spain Craves
In our view, Torres’ attitude stands out as much as his technical skill. Rather than sulking over his exclusion, he’s channeling frustration into performance — something elite managers notice. His willingness to “make things difficult” for De la Fuente isn’t arrogance; it’s the hunger of a player who’s already proven he belongs at international level.
At Villa Park, Emery has created the perfect environment for his former Villarreal pupil to flourish again. The Spaniard’s tactical familiarity, coupled with the Premier League’s intensity, has helped Torres grow into a more rounded defender — stronger in duels and sharper in transitions.
Key Insights
- Pau Torres hasn’t featured for Spain since September 2023.
- Determined to prove himself to Luis de la Fuente ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
- His passing and positioning remain vital to Aston Villa’s current form.
- Left-footed centre-backs of his calibre are rare in Spain’s pool.
- Emery’s faith in Torres could be the bridge back to international football.
What’s Next
Aston Villa face Liverpool on 1 November 2025, followed by a key Europa League tie against Maccabi Tel Aviv FC. Continued consistency in those fixtures could turn De la Fuente’s head ahead of the next Spain squad announcement in early 2026.
👉 Villa fans — do you think Pau Torres deserves another shot with Spain after his recent form?
By John William — FootballPlace.co.uk · Updated on 30 October 2025
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