Ahead of Real Madrid clash: Marcelino speaks at the press conference
Marcelino faced the media on the eve of a demanding La Liga test, as Villarreal prepare to visit Real Madrid on Saturday at 22:00, with live coverage on ONE. The head coach did not sugarcoat the challenge, framing it as one of the toughest tasks his squad will face this season while also signaling ambition and belief in his players.
Solomón returns; lineup unchanged from the Juventus match
When asked about the squad, Marcelino confirmed that the team will line up much as it did against Juventus, with one exception: Manor Solomón will be available after missing midweek due to Yom Kippur. He emphasized continuity, noting that the same group will carry the responsibility of taking the game to Real Madrid, a side he described as formidable and title-contending. The coach conveyed a clear message: there are no hidden changes or surprises looming on his bench.
Tactical outlook: the stakes and the approach
On the table is a mission that requires balance and boldness. Marcelino downplayed any fixation with the table position, saying, “This would be a one-off moment; we’re not chasing the top spot as a recurring aim.” After seven rounds, Villarreal sit on 16 points, and the focus is on continuing that positive momentum. Real Madrid come into the game with immense quality, especially in the final third, where a single loss levels heavy pressure and increases the danger. Marcelino warned that the match will be won or lost by how well his side presses and defends collectively, stressing that sitting back too much would invite serious trouble. He highlighted the physical demands already endured, noting that their prior match with Juventus left the team with only a few days to recover and refresh mentally and physically.
Facing Real Madrid’s threats: Mbappe, Vinícius, Bellingham, and Güler
When asked about the threat from Real Madrid’s attack, the coach stressed that they would not single out one opponent. Mbappé is a decisive, in-form player, he acknowledged, but he was quick to add that the team must be wary of the broader constellation: Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and young talents like Arda Güler bring substantial capabilities in the final third. Marcelino outlined a plan to impose their pressure high and force Madrid to defend near their goal, while staying compact against a side that can punish any lapse with a burst of speed and precision. The emphasis was on a disciplined, collective defensive effort and a precise, brave attacking plan to exploit any openings.
Squad status and rotation considerations
Marcelino confirmed that there are no new injury updates beyond Solomón’s return. The squad remains largely the same as the Juventus game, with the potential for rotation in a tight window after a physically demanding fixture. The manager hinted that he would assess recovery in the days ahead and make decisions that keep the team fresh while preserving the intensity required to challenge a team of Real Madrid’s stature.
Marcelino’s personal reflections: stability and belief
The mood in the interview room reflected a manager who feels supported and grounded. He spoke about a strong bond with the club’s leadership and staff, describing it as a genuine connection that helped steer the club through difficult periods. He expressed gratitude to the president and everyone at Villarreal for their unwavering backing, emphasizing that such backing is essential as they strive for sustained success.
The dream of trophies and the incremental path forward
On the topic of lifting a major title, Marcelino tempered expectations with realism. He acknowledged that Spain’s domestic titles are fiercely contested, with two giants and a talented third side, and European silverware adds another layer of complexity. Villarreal has one trophy in its history, and the focus remains on steady progress—step by step—maintaining harmony, motivation, and belief that the club can compete at the highest level throughout the season.
Rotations and the longer arc
Regarding potential rotations, the coach suggested that changes could occur as the schedule tightens after intense matches. The priority is recovery—both physical and mental—to stay competitive in every fixture. Marcelino reinforced that the team’s objective is to be highly competitive for 90 minutes, with a depth of quality that can adapt to the demands of a game against Real Madrid.
Looking at Real Madrid under their new system
Marcelino analyzed Real Madrid’s modern approach as a more aggressive, one-on-one unit across the pitch, with a willingness to take risks at the back. He framed it as a team-wide, coordinated effort rather than a solo battle against individual stars. He warned that Madrid’s system can press relentlessly, but with focus and unity, Villarreal can ask questions of them for the full 90 minutes.
Final thought: a must-perfect, must-commit performance
Closing remarks underscored the need for a near-flawless performance on both ends of the pitch. “To beat Real Madrid you need a perfect game from both sides,” he said, adding that the team would go to Madrid with faith, desire to surprise, and a willingness to push their limits. The match, he insisted, is an opportunity to demonstrate the club’s growth and the strength of their collective effort.
