Marcelino returns Villarreal to the Champions League

Marcelino García Toral has surpassed the best expectations by leading Villarreal to the Champions League. The six consecutive victories achieved in the last few rounds of La Liga -something that in the major leagues is only matched by Borussi Dortmund- are the best example of the outstanding numbers signed by the Yellow Submarine:

• Third-highest scorer in La Liga, with 71 goals.
• They are the most prolific Villarreal side in the club’s history.
• 37 out of 38 matchdays among the top five.
• Picked up 36 points away from home – the second-best away record, including 11 victories.

To top it all off, Marcelino hits 70 points this season – his personal best with Villarreal in the top flight, beating his previous mark from the 2015–16 campaign. These figures highlight an outstanding season from a team that’s cracked the code.

Titles are important but it’s almost trumped by feeling loved.”

“I want to thank everyone who placed their trust in us for this second spell,” said Marcelino. “We owe a lot to the club, the fans, and this group of players who’ve worked hard for this reward.”

👏 Un entrenador histórico de #LALIGAEASPORTS:

💛 El entrenador del @VillarrealCF, @Marcelino, protagonista de esta semana en #LALIGAWorld. pic.twitter.com/QHLeFCQoce

— LALIGA (@LaLiga) May 25, 2025

Looking deeper, the Asturian boss and his loyal backroom staff feel right at home. “Villarreal means a lot to me. I’ve found people here who share my way of thinking. Winning trophies matters, of course – but feeling appreciated wherever you’ve been? That almost matters more.”