“We are playing against a fantastic team” – Hansi Flick

Barcelona boss Hansi Flick and forward Anthony Gordon spoke positively of Aston Villa, ahead of the two sides’ meeting in the UEFA Champions League.

Unai Emery takes his side to Camp Nou on Tuesday evening (ko 8pm GMT), with a perfect league phase record of three wins from three.

And the German coach praised his opposite number, admitting he is expecting a difficult match.

“Our focus is on this game,” said Flick, speaking at Barça’s pre-match press conference on Monday afternoon.

“Today and tomorrow, we will only focus on the game against Aston Villa. We are playing against a fantastic team, and it is a big moment for them.

“Emery is one of the best coaches in Europe. He has a clear idea of how to play in offence and defence, and I appreciate a lot of what I see.

“He is very successful. In the way his team plays, you can see a clear structure, and in offence, they have different patterns. For me, it is amazing to see his team.

“The start [to the season] was not easy, but they came back. You can see the confidence they have on the ball, how they play out, and (Nicolas) Jackson is at an unbelievable level.

“For us, it will be a tough game against a good team and, as well, a great coach. It is the Champions League, and every game is special. Every opponent in the Champions League has quality as well.”

England international Gordon, who joined Barcelona from Newcastle United over the summer, also lauded the impact of Emery and the squad he has built in B6.

As someone who is no stranger to facing the Villans, the former Everton winger feels he is well aware of what kind of an encounter to expect on Tuesday.

Gordon said: “They are a very good team. They have one of the best coaches in the world right now and have great players. They are on a great run as of late, so it will be a difficult game.

“They are one of the teams who are always in a game and are always ready for any type of game. It will be a very tough challenge. English teams are very physical.

“I have played against Villa before – they are one of the most physical teams in the league and have great players.”