Marcelino expects a tough match against the recently-crowned LALIGA champions
Villarreal CF head coach, Marcelino García Toral, addressed the media in the press room at the José Manuel Llaneza Training Ground to preview this Sunday’s encounter (7pm CEST, Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys) against FC Barcelona, who have already secured the 2024/25 LALIGA title with two games to spare.
Here are the standout comments from the Yellow Submarine’s manager:
Possible return of Kiko Femenía and Thierno Barry
“We’ll wait until tomorrow’s training session, but there’s a chance we can have both players with us. We want to have as many players available as possible, without taking unnecessary risks. Both took part in today’s session, and we’ll assess how they feel tomorrow.”
Facing a title-winning FC Barcelona
“First of all, we’d like to congratulate FC Barcelona on the title, their season, and their style of play. As well as being deserved champions, they’ve made us all enjoy their brand of football. We’re going into the game with hope and enthusiasm. There’s a prize within reach for us, and getting a result there could secure it. It will be tough, but we’ll go for it — we’re in good form, and when you’re playing well, you feel capable of beating anyone.”
Race for the Champions League
“Athletic have secured it with yesterday’s result. Obviously, it makes it harder for us to finish fourth — there are six points left to play for and they’re three ahead, plus the goal difference. At the same time, we’ve increased our lead over Betis, which puts us in a more favourable position. Hopefully the next matchday can give us mathematical qualification.”
A resilient FC Barcelona side
“Barça are top of the table, unbeaten throughout 2025 so far, with outstanding numbers and impressive performances. In the reverse fixture we were able to cause them problems, but they did the same to us. They’ll leave space in behind — that’s their style, and I doubt it will change. We need to be fully aware of the difficulty ahead.”
