Mouriño, Villarreal’s rock who impressed Guardiola, targets Raphinha test and a statement win | OneFootball

Santiago Mouriño has become a mainstay for third-placed Villarreal and now prepares for Saturday’s test against Barcelona winger Raphinha.

Pep Guardiola congratulated the Uruguayan after Manchester City’s 0-2 win at Villarreal. El Periódico Mediterráneo reports that the gesture underlined his rise.

Three seasons ago he was in Uruguay, then at Zaragoza and Alavés. With few chances under Diego Simeone at Atlético Madrid, Marcelino called and he moved. By late February he is among Villarreal’s key players.

He has been playing through discomfort since a heavy challenge in Pafos, which affected his levels at times. He now feels fine and pointed to the Valencia game as proof.

He accepts winning at Barcelona’s ground will be tough, with the hosts perfect at home. Villarreal aim to defend well, counter at pace and be clinical.

Mouriño adds that the team still have not beaten a big side this season and want to take that step.

Initially an unusual pick at full-back, often as a false third centre-back, he now feels fully adapted. He leads Villarreal with 100 recoveries, 96 duels and 44 tackles won, and wants to improve his build-up and end product.

He notes a young defence with Pau Navarro and Veiga has improved through communication and togetherness, and they want more clean sheets. The target is Champions League qualification, game by game, widening the gap to fifth while chasing Barcelona.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo