Warnock will join Villa for an undisclosed fee from Premier League rivals Blackburn Rovers.
“The main aim is pushing for that top four spot. That’s the ambition,” he told his new club’s official website.
“The manager is buying some really talented players – young and ambitious – and I’m sure they will see that top four spot as a target and goal.
“Playing in Europe is important – playing against the top players on the continent is fantastic – and there’s no better stage to do that than on the Champions League.
“If we could do that, it would be a great achievement.”
“We’re in the Europa League now and that is hugely important, too,” he added.
“To play against great sides will be tremendous – just look at the likes of Celtic who will be involved in the competition now.
“If we can qualify for the group stages, we’ll be part of that. It’s a big night. After the result last week, it’s a must-win game against Rapid. I’m sure the lads will go in with plenty of confidence and I’m sure we’ll get the right result.”
