Iñigo Pérez opens first-team door to 11 Villarreal academy players | OneFootball

Iñigo Pérez has opened the door to 11 academy players in his first week at Miralcamp, with Villarreal depleted by World Cup absences. According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, only 16 first-team players were available, so youngsters stepped up to complete training.

Among them is Álex Forés, back in June from a loan at Real Oviedo. With one year left on his deal, it appears both player and club will be open to listening to offers that could lead to his departure.

Others have a chance to convince in early sessions and friendlies. Dani Requena shone on loan at Córdoba last season, while Pau Cabanes was in Marcelino’s plans before a right-knee cruciate injury sidelined him until the run-in. Both have already debuted in La Liga.

Nizar’s strong finish with Villarreal B earned him an extension to 2027 and a first taste of senior training. The 21-year-old from Castellón is among those to have surprised in week one.

He is joined by Cheikh Thiam and Moussa Diallo, Senegalese prospects from academies in their homeland, and by Lautaro Spatz, who arrived last summer at 23 to bolster the reserves.

Three familiar names have also featured. Carlos Maciá made five league appearances and one in the Copa del Rey, while Alassane Diatta and Daniel Budesca debuted on the final Champions League matchday against Bayer Leverkusen.

Finally, B-team goalkeeper Rubén Gómez is working under Pérez. He has yet to debut in an official match, though he did join first-team pre-season a year ago.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo