Marcelino García Toral looks ahead to an intense clash with Real Betis (Saturday, 6:30pm CEST)
Villarreal CF head coach Marcelino García Toral spoke to the media on Friday to analyse the build-up to the match against Real Betis, corresponding to Matchday 9 of LALIGA EA Sports 25/26, which will take place tomorrow, Saturday, at 6:30pm CEST at the Estadio de la Cerámica.
The game carries special significance for the coach, who will become the manager with the most matches in Villarreal CF’s history (260). “It’s a special day. I reach Villarreal’s history as the coach with the most games in charge. It’s a double feeling. On one hand, gratitude to everyone who trusted me, and on the other, satisfaction with everything achieved. We hope to enjoy it with a victory as well,” he explained.
Marcelino also highlighted the curious coincidence that the match comes against Manuel Pellegrini, whom he surpasses at Villarreal CF, and who will also become the manager with the most games in charge in LALIGA for Betis. “It’s a nice coincidence and a double coincidence that this record is confirmed in a match between the two of us.”
Regarding the match itself, the Villarreal coach underlined its importance: “We are going into Matchday 9, and at this stage nothing is decisive, but it is important. Winning at home against a direct rival gives us the head-to-head advantage and keeps us in the fight for European places. I repeat, it won’t be decisive, but I do consider it a very important game.”
Finally, speaking about the opposition, the Submarino coach analysed the verdiblanco side and warned of their competitive level: “We face a tough opponent with similar aspirations to ours. Last year, during a key phase of the competition, they were a direct rival. They have a very good squad, Pellegrini makes them competitive, they play good football and get good results. Betis have experience, quality and can stay in the game until the final minute.”
