João Gomes already looks very much at home at Aston Villa. His first Champions League appearance only added to that feeling.
The midfielder started as Villa beat Club Brugge 3-2 in Belgium on Tuesday and, along with a classy display, he set up Emiliano Buendía for their second goal.
It was Gomes’ first ever appearance in the competition. Speaking to Globo Esporte afterwards, the Brazilian made it clear just how much that meant to him.
“A dream come true. Being able to play a Champions League game for the first time in my career is one of those moments you’ll never forget,” he said.
“I’m glad it came with a win and that I was able to play well. It’s the competition every player of my generation grew up watching, with the big games and the great performances from Brazilian and world football stars.”
Gomes wants more at Villa Park
There was plenty for Aston Villa to like beyond the personal milestone. Gomes played his part in an away victory and believes the team handled a difficult night in Belgium well.
“I’m very happy to be able to contribute to Aston Villa’s journey,” he explained.
“It was a tough game, on a tight pitch and with the supporters putting pressure on us all the time. But we behaved in an exemplary way from the first minute to the last.”
“Our objective is clear: to reach the knockout stage. There’s nothing better than starting with three points away from home.”
“Now we have two games in a row at Villa Park in front of our supporters. We’re going all out to get another two wins.”
Quite an ambitious target, although Villa have given themselves a very useful start.
Premier League experience making things easier
Gomes only swapped Wolves for Aston Villa two months ago, but there has been little sign of him needing much time to settle.
The 25-year-old believes his previous spell in England has made that transition considerably easier.
“I’m feeling more and more comfortable and settled in the Aston Villa squad and with what my manager asks of me,” Gomes said.
“My teammates and the entire coaching staff make me feel very comfortable. Because of my time at Wolves, I’m already used to the intense rhythm of the Premier League. Our pre-season was productive in that sense.”
“We played some quality friendlies, really simulating what the season would be like. I just have to keep working as hard as possible in training so I can always contribute positively to Villa.”
There were already good signs during that preparation. Gomes scored against Bayern Munich in a 2-1 friendly defeat. Now he has an assist on his Champions League debut as well.
Aston Villa are facing the early evidence that buying someone already well accustomed to English football might just get them an immediate return.
