As two clubs close to Stiliyan Petrov’s heart prepare to face off in tonight’s UEFA Champions League clash, the former midfielder shared his thoughts ahead of the highly-anticipated match at Villa Park. With seven years at both Celtic and Aston Villa, Petrov holds a unique perspective on this encounter. “How many players can say that they’ve played for two great clubs?” he told Celtic TV. “I had seven years at Celtic and seven years at Villa. I had great success and played in front of two great sets of fans. “Not many players have the opportunity to see their former teams playing in the Champions League. A crucial game as well—two teams who are managed by two great managers. Very well-experienced and drilled managers who have added some exciting young players for both clubs.” Reflecting on his time with both clubs, Petrov pointed to his initial moves to Celtic and Aston Villa as transformative moments in his career and life. “I will pick two moments, and this is signing for both clubs.” Petrov said. “I had been given the opportunity to play and grow as a person. ‘The pleasure to play with some great team-mates and outstanding players in both clubs – I’ve worked with some amazing managers who I’ve learned so much from.’ “Through my transition from Celtic to Villa, I grew up as a player and as a human being. I raised my family through that period as well.” Petrov revealed that his family ties remain deeply connected to both clubs, with his sons showing their loyalties in different ways. “One of my sons, Stiliyan, who was born in Glasgow, is a Celtic fan. He’s been singing all night last night. His Mum has had enough and just wants the game to be over!” Petrov said. “My other son, Kristiyan, will just be making comments about the results and the current form of Villa.”Petrov admitted he could never pick a side in this fixture, especially given the support he received from both clubs during his cancer battle. “For me, it’s been really exciting and really enjoyable. I haven’t picked a side, and I don’t think I can pick a side with everything I’ve been through with both clubs.” he said. Petrov praised Aston Villa’s current team under Unai Emery, noting their pace and organisation. However, he acknowledged signs of fatigue in recent matches. “They are just a very well-organised team. A manager who plays a certain way. They are very quick, with a lot of urgency, and they break really, really quickly going forward.” he said. “But in the last couple of games, it seems like they’ve dropped a little bit. They look a little bit tired, a little bit exhausted from all the games and travelling. The pressure is normal to see. “It will be interesting to see how the two managers approach the game. We’ve seen Unai against Bayern Munich, he approached it differently, sitting back and waiting. So we will wait and see how they approach this game.” Petrov also reflected on Celtic’s Champions League campaign, praising their performances under Brendan Rodgers. “It’s been good. The journey has been amazing. Some great results and one probably bad one, but the main thing after that result was the reaction from the players and the attitude.” Petrov said. “The manager seemed calm, the players were calm, and they believed in what they can do and achieve. Going through to the play-off stage is really good.” When asked for a score prediction, the Bulgarian couldn’t but predicted a scoring draw. “I’ll take 2-2.” Petrov said. “As much as I think Villa have the advantage of playing at home, they’ve only conceded three goals and look solid. Their European adventure has been incredible. “If this was at Celtic Park, it would be the other way around. With the new competition, most teams are just counting on their home games and don’t want to risk it in away games. That might change as teams understand the competition better.” Watch the full interview with Stiliyan Petrov now on Celtic TV CELTIC TVFixturesAston Villa Vs. Celtic – Wed, Jan 29th 2025, 20:00
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