Villarreal coach Marcelino set to depart after Champions League qualification
Marcelino will leave his role as Villarreal coach at the end of the season, despite leading the team to a Champions League spot. The club confirmed his departure, citing an inability to agree on a contract extension. Marcelino, in his second stint with Villarreal, helped the team secure back-to-back European qualifications. The club is now searching for a new coach as they prepare for another season in Europe’s top competition.
Match highlights
- Marcelino guided Villarreal to a top-four finish, securing Champions League qualification.
- He previously coached Villarreal from 2013-16 and returned in 2023.
- Under his leadership, the team moved from the relegation zone to eighth place in 2023/24, then finished fifth and qualified for the Champions League the following season.
- Villarreal’s 5-1 win over Levante on Saturday confirmed their spot in next season’s Champions League.
- Rayo Vallecano coach Inigo Perez is reportedly a candidate to replace Marcelino.
