The three figures behind Villarreal’s 19th European campaign in 26 top-flight seasons | OneFootball

Villarreal returned to the Champions League after an outstanding campaign, built on a club-record first half with 44 points. El Periódico Mediterráneo reports they stayed with Spain’s frontrunners for months before clinching a return to Europe’s top competition.

The numbers underline it. Villarreal set a club record for top-flight goals with 72 and posted their best home return at La Cerámica, 14 wins, two draws and only three defeats.

Three figures shaped the success, president Fernando Roig, chief executive Fernando Roig Negueroles and head coach Marcelino García Toral.

Roig again provided understated stewardship, stressing the difficulty of the achievement. The model he launched with the late Llaneza more than 25 years ago has underpinned stability and regular European qualification. This will be the club’s 19th European participation in 26 seasons.

Recruitment bore the imprint of Roig Negueroles and director of football Miguel Ángel Tena. Last summer brought significant investment in young signings to raise the level while protecting sustainability. A balanced squad, with options across the pitch and high-quality attacking resources, kept Villarreal near the summit.

Marcelino turned planning into points, building a recognisable, efficient side across the campaign. He departs with Champions League football secured once more, his farewell in the final match proving deeply emotional as players, supporters and the club offered thanks for a successful second spell.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo