Villarreal B set out pre-season with Valencia Mestalla and Zaragoza friendlies | OneFootball

Villarreal B’s pre-season is taking shape, with two eye-catching friendlies as David Albelda readies the side for a return to Primera Federación.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, the schedule features Valencia Mestalla v Villarreal B on Saturday 25 July, plus Real Zaragoza at the Ciudad Deportiva José Manuel Llaneza on Saturday 15 August.

The Mestalla meeting arrives early in the programme and is designed to gauge Albelda’s group competitively, test automatisms and bed in new faces. It should help start to define roles in a squad blending youth, talent and ambition.

Zaragoza represent a sterner examination given the opponent’s potential and the proximity of the league start. Also preparing for their campaign in Primera Federación, they offer a strong yardstick for a Villarreal B aiming to reach kick-off with rhythm, legs and a recognisable idea.

This pre-season is key for Albelda as he looks to consolidate the Mini Submarino in an increasingly demanding division. He must fine-tune pieces, share minutes and identify who is ready to take responsibility from the outset.

The friendlies will be central to accelerating new signings’ adaptation, maintaining continuity for returnees and opening the door to academy youngsters pushing for a place in the B team set-up.

Right-back Jan Encuentra has joined from FC Andorra, a future-minded addition to reinforce the back line. Valen Gómez arrives on a free after Talavera de la Reina, able to play centrally or out wide.

There is also an important renewal, with Ayman Arguigue extending his deal until 2029. The Spanish-Moroccan forward, signed in January, impressed late last season and will continue his development with the Mini Submarino.

With early tests in place, Villarreal B are shaping a summer of signings, renewals and hard work to be ready from day one.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo