Over 100 former academy players return to their old home to mark the 25th anniversary of Villarreal CF’s residence

Villarreal CF hosted an emotional event this Saturday to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its youth residence, a key part of the Yellows’ academy structure. More than 100 former groguet academy players and staff members closely connected to the residence returned to what was once their home for a truly special day.

Attendees revisited the halls, shared spaces, and rooms of the residence, where they experienced unforgettable moments during their development years. Now fully renovated, the facilities look different but still evoke powerful memories. Guests also toured the first team’s facilities at the José Manuel Llaneza Training Ground and the Estadio de la Cerámica, where they enjoyed the Immersive Villarreal experience—an interactive journey through the Yellow Submarine’s Museum & Tour.

To cap off the day, the former players enjoyed lunch together and an afternoon gathering full of reunions and shared memories at the Estadio de la Cerámica.

Familiar faces from the academy and first team

Among those attending were two former Villarreal CF first-team players: Juan Carlos Sánchez, a legendary goalkeeper and hero of the club’s most recent promotion to LaLiga, and Miguel Llambrich ‘Miguelón’, who broke into the first team just over five years ago and has since played for clubs including RCD Espanyol, Real Oviedo, and FC Cartagena.

Although unable to attend in person, first-team stars Gerard Moreno and Alfonso Pedraza—both academy graduates and former residents—also took part by sending special video messages for the occasion. Both are living proof of the success of a development project that goes far beyond football.

A youth model with its eyes on the future

The 25th anniversary of the Villarreal CF residence provided a fantastic opportunity to reflect on the past, to thank those who helped build the club’s history, and to celebrate all who once embarked on the Yellow Submarine in pursuit of their dreams of becoming professional footballers.

Over the past 25 years, the residence has played a fundamental role in the growth of Villarreal CF’s academy players. While many have gone on to become professionals, others—though not reaching the top level—enjoyed a unique and formative experience, deeply marked by the values of the club: dedication, humility, and commitment.

Since the residence first opened, more than 100 academy graduates have gone on to make their debut with Villarreal CF’s first team, and over 300 have become professional footballers.