Javi Calleja was “very satisfied” to qualify for the Round of 32 at “such a difficult place to play”  

Villarreal CF Manager, Javi Calleja, highlighted his team’s “great play” after the victory against FC Astana in a really difficult place to play: “I’m really happy with the team’s work. We were able to cause them danger and make them uncomfortable throughout the whole match. The team demonstrated their character against a tough opponent, who had gone unbeaten for 17 games”.

The Yellows boss also added how happy he is to finish top of the group and qualify for the UEFA Europa League Round of 32: “It’s a huge achievement. A reward for the whole team’s hard work over these last few months”.

Calleja also took the time to praise Dani Raba’s performance: “He was spectacular. It was enough to take your hat off to him. He gave us a lot out there and the way he performed is the path he must continue on”.

Lastly the Submarine Manager stated that, despite the long journey home, they are “prepared” to face the difficult upcoming league tie against Sevilla FC (Sunday, 6:30pm CET).