Villarreal’s model delivers today as another generation gathers pace | OneFootball

Villarreal’s production line keeps rolling, with three players named in CIES Football Observatory’s top 100 under-23 transfer values outside the 10 richest clubs. None were first-teamers a year ago.

The club continues to sell, reinvest and promote. In 2023 Nicolas Jackson, Samu Chukwueze and Pau Torres left, in 2024 Filip Jorgensen, and in 2025 Álex Baena and Yeremy Pino. According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, Villarreal moved for Alberto Moleiro as Baena’s successor and, after qualifying for the Champions League, secured major deals for Mikautadze and Renato Veiga.

Renato Veiga tops the LaLiga contingent, valued at about 63 million euros. The 22-year-old centre-back is a key piece, past 2,700 minutes and assured, though still with room to grow.

Moleiro sits 30th at 56.8 million euros after a major step forward. A slow start gave way to nine league goals and four assists. He has not been called by Spain but his LaLiga form argues for it.

Homegrown Pau Navarro, not yet 21, has surged into the side. His versatility and maturity have pushed his value close to 48 million euros, with standout displays against Vinícius. His passing has been vital since Juan Foyth’s serious injury.

Behind them, a wave from the Juvenil and B teams is emerging. Hugo López has four goals in three under-19 matches and earned a first start at Getafe. Carlos Maciá has played four first-team games at 17, while Alassane Diatta, Joselillo Gaitán, Dani Budesca, Ives Valou and Iker Adelantado are also in line.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo