Ferran Torres says PSG move was decided before Barcelona departure

Ferran Torres says he had already decided to join Paris Saint-Germain before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the move from Barcelona as a major step forward in his career.

The Spain forward completed his transfer to PSG for about 50m euros after four-and-a-half years at Barcelona. He has made an immediate impression in France, scoring twice as PSG recovered from two goals down to draw their opening Ligue 1 match of the season.

Speaking at PSG’s Media Day, the 25-year-old said negotiations with the European champions began before the World Cup and that his desire to join the club was already clear.

“The contacts with PSG actually began even before the World Cup. They called us and we spoke,” Torres said.

“I had already made my decision because I wanted to play for a club like PSG. It is a step forward in my career, one that I am extremely proud of because I am joining the European champions.”

Luis Enrique’s presence was also a significant factor in Torres’ decision. The manager worked with him during his time with the Spanish national team and played an important part in persuading him to move to Paris.

“I have always said that Luis Enrique was like a father to me from the moment I joined the Spanish national team,” Torres said.

“He has always believed in me, and now he believed in me enough to bring me to PSG. He has always given me a lot of confidence, and I hope to repay that trust this season.”

Torres also paid tribute to Luis Enrique and PSG sporting director Luis Campos for their roles in completing the transfer.

“Both Luis Enrique and Luis Campos have been very important figures in making my move here happen. I am very grateful for the confidence they have shown in me,” he added.

“I am now 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 former Barcelona player will face his old club soon, with PSG scheduled to meet Barcelona in the Champions League league phase on 21 October.

Torres spent more than four years at Camp Nou and expects the fixture to carry particular significance.

“The match against Barcelona will be special. They were my teammates for four and a half years,” Torres said.

“It will be an exciting match for me and for the team. PSG-Barcelona matches are always special. We will try to win, but we will see.”

PSG’s ambitions extend beyond domestic success. The club have won the Champions League in each of the past two seasons, and Torres believes that record places additional pressure on their opponents.

“PSG are currently the best team in Europe. They have won the last two Champions Leagues, and that puts more pressure on the opponents,” he said.

“We have to improve. We will try to win the Champions League for the third consecutive year.”

Torres’ claim that joining PSG represents a step forward may not be well received by some Barcelona supporters, but his attention is now on establishing himself in Paris.

His next chance to contribute to PSG’s Ligue 1 campaign comes against Monaco at Parc des Princes on Friday.