Villarreal CF manager Marcelino García Toral expressed his admiration and respect for FC Barcelona after their LaLiga EA Sports title triumph.
Speaking in the pre-match press conference ahead of their clash, Marcelino praised the quality and style of Barça’s game, and announced that his team would form the traditional guard of honour in recognition of their achievement. “Congratulations to Barça for the title, the season, and their football. I think they’ve made us all enjoy the game with their approach — and they are deserved champions,” said the Villarreal coach.
“We will form the guard of honour because I believe it is a sign of respect and a way to acknowledge how well they have done,” he added. This gesture of sportsmanship is not new to Marcelino. In April 2024, following Athletic Club’s Copa del Rey win, Villarreal — also under his command — paid tribute by forming a guard of honour at San Mamés. Marcelino fondly recalled that moment as “one of the best of my life.”
Following the guard of honour for Barcelona, Villarreal earned a vital 3–2 win at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, sealing their spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League. Marcelino underlined the magnitude of the achievement and his team’s competitive mindset: “We’re very close to a big reward. Getting a result there could seal it. We’re going there with that in mind. We’re in good form — and when a team is in good form, it believes it can beat anyone”.
Through both words and actions, Marcelino continues to demonstrate his values and deep respect for the game, strengthening his reputation as a true professional and model of sportsmanship in Spanish football.