Villarreal CF closed an exciting year, excelling in LALIGA and returning to the Champions League
Villarreal CF will never forget the year 2025, which left unforgettable moments for groguets fans. The return to the Champions League, an outstanding LALIGA campaign, memorable victories, valuable achievements, emotional homecomings and celebrations that will remain forever in the memories of the Yellow Submarine faithful.
Before welcoming the upcoming year 2026, it is time to relive the 10 most outstanding moments of a historic 2025:
1. A statement win at the Benito Villamarín (1-2) – April 13
In the fierce battle for a Champions League spot, Real Betis were the main rivals of the Yellow Submarine. The Andalusian side were flying high after an outstanding second half of the season. Villarreal needed to halt Betis’ momentum on their own ground and make a statement in a direct clash.
Marcelino’s side delivered in a highly demanding match (1-2). Goals from Thierno Barry and former Betis player Ayoze Pérez earned Villarreal a priceless victory at the always-challenging Benito Villamarín.
2. Etta Eyong points the way to Europe at Montilivi (0-1) – May 10
A powerful header from Etta Eyong cleared Villarreal’s path toward the Champions League. The Cameroonian tipped the balance in a tight match against Girona at Montilivi.
Thanks to the academy striker’s goal, Marcelino’s men reached the final matches of the season with strong chances of qualifying for Europe’s top competition.
3. Victory over the champions to return to the Champions League (2-3) – May 18
The Yellow Submarine had to defeat newly crowned league champions FC Barcelona on their own turf to secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
With a thrilling 2-3 win, Marcelino’s team achieved their long-awaited objective, pursued with consistency and solidity throughout the season.
4. A huge celebration to mark Champions League qualification – May 25
If one moment defines Villarreal’s 2025, it is undoubtedly the emotional celebration at the Estadio de la Cerámica after the final league match against Sevilla FC (4-2).
The Champions League anthem played, club legend Raúl Albiol said goodbye, La Morocha by Luck Ra played once again, and Álex Baena delivered a heartfelt speech — a prelude to his farewell from the club.
5. Ayoze Pérez wins the Zarra Trophy – May 25
Ayoze Pérez was crowned winner of the Zarra Trophy in the 2024/25 LALIGA EA Sports season. The Tenerife-born forward claimed the prestigious award for the first time after scoring 19 league goals.
He comfortably outscored Oihan Sancet (14) and Kike García (13).
Of his 19 goals:
- 11 with his right foot
- 4 with his left foot
- 4 headers
- None from the penalty spot
In his first season as a groguet, the No. 22 was Villarreal’s top scorer and a key figure in their Champions League qualification.
6. Villarreal win LALIGA Genuine for the first time – June 2
Villarreal EDI made history by winning LALIGA Genuine for the first time. The Yellow Submarine lifted the Fair Play League title in Bilbao, where the final stage of the competition was held.
After hosting Phase Three, the team were welcomed home with honors. The club and the Vila-real City Council paid tribute to the players and staff at the Auditori de Vila-real before the trophy was placed in the Inmersión Villarreal museum.
7. Santi Cazorla returns to La Cerámica – August 15
A groguet legend returned home. Santi Cazorla came back to the Estadio de la Cerámica as captain of Real Oviedo, the club from his hometown.
Before kickoff, the club honored him on the pitch. Marcos Senna presented him with a commemorative shirt, while the fans gave him a standing ovation.
8. The Champions League returns to Vila-real – October 1
Villarreal vs Juventus marked the return of Europe’s top competition to the Estadio de la Cerámica.
The stadium was at its very best and the match lived up to expectations. Georges Mikautadze gave Villarreal the lead. Juventus turned the game around after halftime and held the advantage until the final moments.
Then, in stoppage time, Renato Veiga headed home a dramatic equaliser to spark wild celebrations among the home fans.
9. Rodrigo Hernández returns home – October 21
2025 was also a year of emotional returns. Like Cazorla, Ballon d’Or winner Rodri Hernández returned to the Estadio de la Cerámica.
Although injured, the Manchester City midfielder attended Villarreal’s Champions League match against City. The club welcomed him back to the residence at the training ground where he once lived as a youth player.
Before the match, Villarreal honored him with a commemorative ceramic tile and inducted him into the Passeig Groc, the stadium’s walk of fame.
10. Groguet derby victory at Mestalla (0-2) – October 25
Villarreal conquered Mestalla once again (0-2) after seven consecutive visits without a win.
Goals from Gerard Moreno (penalty) and Santi Comesaña secured a special derby victory, painting the match yellow. The game was preceded by a heartfelt tribute to the victims of the DANA floods.
