Iñigo Pérez arrives at Villarreal with Xavi Valero back as goalkeeping coach | OneFootball

Xavi Valero has returned to Villarreal as goalkeeping coach as incoming head coach Iñigo Pérez assembles a high-profile backroom team. Goalkeeper Arnau Tenas now has a new mentor.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, former Villarreal forward Adrián López will be Pérez’s assistant, offering club know-how and dressing-room rapport, and Javi Mallo joins as fitness coach, a three-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid.

The Castellón-born Vicente Javier “Xavi” Valero Verchili, born on 28 February 1973, brings a lengthy international résumé and a strong reputation for specialist work with keepers.

Valero is closely associated with Rafael Benítez, having served on his staffs at elite clubs, and he recently led first-team goalkeeping at Liverpool.

As of June 2026 he left Liverpool amicably after informing the club of his wish to return to Spain. His career includes Liverpool, West Ham United, Real Madrid, Napoli, Chelsea and Inter Milan.

With this staff, Pérez aims to embed his methods quickly and ease the squad’s adaptation for a campaign defined by the Champions League test and the construction of a new Villarreal.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo