The Asturian head coach says the team approach the clash against Mallorca with the ambition of consolidating third place (Sunday, 2pm)
Villarreal CF head coach Marcelino García Toral spoke to the media to analyse the build-up to the match against RCD Mallorca, corresponding to Matchday 35 of LALIGA EA Sports, which will be played this Sunday at 2pm at Son Moix.
The Yellow head coach began his press conference by expressing his gratitude to all those who have accompanied him during his time at Villarreal CF: “My thanks go to everyone. We leave proud of the work carried out and, of course, with our hearts absolutely full of gratitude for everything we have shared and for the treatment received from the directors, players, staff and fans of Villarreal CF. We are very proud of this wonderful and successful chapter and of the way it comes to an end.”
The Asturian coach also reiterated his words of appreciation towards the club’s directors: “I only have words of gratitude towards Fernando Roig and Fernando Roig Negueroles for always allowing us to work with freedom, for their support and for their friendship.”
Marcelino was also keen to highlight and value the respect shown by the dressing room: “I am very grateful for the respect shown by the squad. Grateful to each and every player and proud of this group for everything that has been achieved.”
When asked about his fondest memories from his seven seasons on the Yellow Submarine’s bench, the coach pointed to promotion to the top flight as the most special moment: “We arrived in a situation of maximum need and promotion was mandatory. It was an unforgettable moment for everyone: the club, the city and the fans. Afterwards came European qualification and Champions League participation. In seven seasons, we played in Europe in five. That is something to be proud of.”
Regarding the fans, Marcelino acknowledged the affection he has received over the years: “The fans have always treated me with a lot of affection and I will be eternally grateful. The other day, after the match against Levante UD, it was a very emotional moment for me.”
Looking ahead to the final stretch of the campaign, Marcelino made it clear that the team’s competitive ambition remains intact: “We have the obligation to offer our maximum performance and the desire to maintain that third place. We are going to Mallorca with the objective of winning.”
Finally, the Yellow head coach analysed the Balearic side and warned of the difficulty of the fixture: “Mallorca have greatly improved their numbers and are coming off a very positive run of form at home. The fact that so many teams are involved at the bottom end shows the competitiveness of the league. We know we are going to a difficult ground, but we want to compete at the highest level and look for the best possible result, which is a win.”
