Marcelino admits Villarreal 'were bound to suffer' after failing to kill off game
Villarreal boss Marcelino reflects on a hard-fought away win, highlighting the importance of a clean sheet and praising his team's defensive resolve.
Villarreal managed to grind out a crucial away victory despite a nervy finish, with manager Marcelino acknowledging the team’s failure to convert chances nearly cost them dearly.
Tough but vital win
The Yellow Submarine gaffer was clearly chuffed with the three points, particularly after their previous defeat. He emphasized how challenging it is for any team to secure away victories at this stage of the season - even the big boys are finding it tricky.
Marcelino pointed to a lack of clinical finishing as the main reason for their late-game jitters: “When you don’t kill off the game, suffering is normal,” he remarked, in what was the essence of his post-match analysis.
The clean sheet was a particular source of pride for the manager, coming after a string of matches where they’d been leaking goals. He believes this defensive solidity will boost confidence throughout the squad, especially among his backline.
No room for complacency
Despite Villarreal sitting pretty in third place with 48 points after 24 matches, Marcelino was quick to dismiss any notion that the team can now relax. He’s having none of it:
- Warned against excessive confidence
- Stressed focusing on their own performances rather than rivals
- Acknowledged they’ve exceeded league expectations while underperforming in Europe
Injury concerns and youth prospects
There was a bit of bad news on the injury front with Rafa Marín forced off with an ankle sprain. The defender had put in a proper shift before having to come off, and his availability for the next match remains in doubt.
Young Pau Navarro got the nod again, with Marcelino explaining his selection policy is based purely on performance. He acknowledged that younger players naturally experience more inconsistency but expressed satisfaction with Navarro’s development.
Partey and Mikautadze showing promise
Marcelino had positive words for Thomas Partey, describing him as “an excellent player and person” who could be crucial in the season’s final stretch if he maintains fitness.
Georgian striker Mikautadze also received praise, not just for his goalscoring but for his improved understanding of team mechanisms and better coordination with teammates. Marcelino noted the forward appears mentally sharper and more involved in general play.
As the business end of the season approaches, Villarreal appear to be finding form at just the right time, despite making hard work of this particular victory.