Unai Emery reckons Villarreal have lost their element of surprise as the Spanish boss is wary of facing a Liverpool side who are in their "best moment."
The La Liga have made a stunning run to the Champions League semi-finals knocking out Juventus and Bayern Munich in the process. They travel to Anfield on Wednesday night for the first leg of their semi-final clash with a spot in the final up for grabs.
It would be a fairytale story for Villarreal if they managed to get the better of Jurgen Klopp's men but they shouldn't be underestimated since they've already disposed of two European powerhouses.
Emery admits the "surprise factor" worked in their favour, but he reckons it's deteriorating as Liverpool will be fully aware of the danger his side poses since they've managed to reach the final four.
He said at his pre-match press conference: "The surprise factor is dwindling. That is no longer present, whoever reaches the Champions League semi-finals is there because they deserve it," Emery told a news conference on Tuesday.
"Liverpool know that we are in good European form, that we have been able to eliminate two great teams. They know it won't be easy. They will feel they are favourites, that's normal, but they will respect us."
Liverpool are looking for their second Champions League in the space of four years after winning the title in 2019. It was a historic side that came out on top against Tottenham on that occasion that would go on to win the Premier League the following season.
But Emery reckons their current side have reached an even higher level and believes they are playing at the peak of their powers currently with only one defeat across all competitions since the turn of the year.
The former Arsenal boss also pointed to their ability to win the ball high up the pitch which Villarreal will need to negate if they are to have any chance in the tie.
"I see a Liverpool that have improved," he said. We face Liverpool in their best moment. It's true that against teams that retreat they can have more difficulties, but they are prepared for it."
Emery has revived his career at Villarreal following a difficult spell in north London, winning the Europa League with the Spanish side last season - beating Manchester United in the final.
He does not have happy memories of Anfield to lean on however and believes Klopp's philosophy is why his Arsenal side struggled to have success there.
"I know how difficult it is given my experiences with Liverpool at Anfield and because of an identity created by Klopp," he added.
