Villarreal face centre-back logjam as Iñigo Pérez weighs right-back balance in pre-season | OneFootball

Villarreal open pre-season on 6 July with medicals in Vila-real, then resume training on 9 July at the Ciudad Deportiva José Manuel Llaneza. For new head coach Iñigo Pérez, the first major call is an overcrowded centre-back department.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, there are six recognised centre-backs, Renato Veiga, Logan Costa, Willy Kambwala, Juan Foyth, Santiago Mouriño and Pau Navarro. With usually only two starters unless the system shifts, competition will be fierce and roles defined in pre-season.

Veiga brings size, a left foot, defensive bite and build-up quality. Costa, also a World Cup player, offers power, aerial strength and recovery into space. Kambwala is young and powerful, and must impress daily to earn the staff's trust.

Foyth, Mouriño and Pau Navarro can play centrally or at right-back, which explains part of the surplus without ending the debate. The only specialist right-back is Alexander Freeman, while that trio provide a more defensive option there.

All of which makes pre-season a defensive audition. Pérez must judge who fits a higher line, who gives the cleanest build-up and who can cover multiple roles without a drop in level.

The crowding at centre-back could shape the market. With six for one zone, not everyone will play the same minutes. Workload, injuries and versatility favour depth, but competitive balance requires clear roles.

The club will decide whether to keep that cover or trim a packed position, depending on Pérez's impressions, right-back needs and any opportunities that arise. The rebuild looks set to start from the back.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo