It has been a year since Marcelino García Toral resumed his role at Villarreal after turbulent years that saw the club with two managerial changes (Quique Setién and Pacheta) within a season. At his appointment, the club loomed near relegation with just 12 points.
Villarreal sits now in Champions League places with double the points and a game in hand. Marcelino’s second spell has proven transformative.
Despite a rocky start—his team had to navigate through extensive squad changes (10 departures and 11 arrivals)—the Yellow Submarine found consistency. Across 45 official matches since his return, they’ve secured 23 wins and only nine losses, with 13 draws.
In the 2024-25 season, their improved offensive numbers (1.96 goals per game) have offset a slight increase in goals conceded (1.6 per match). These statistics underline a commitment to a proactive playing style that has brought them closer to their objectives.