Revamped Villarreal, how Marcelino's overhaul is making waves

The club's transformation has been more than superficial; it marks a significant shift from their previous struggles.

Last season, Villarreal grappled with the departures of key figures such as Samuel Chukwueze, Nico Jackson, and Pau Torres, all while refraining from major summer investments.

However, this season, Villarreal have aggressively invested, spending over 62 million euros on new signings, making them the second-highest spenders in the transfer window after Atletico Madrid. Their acquisitions include impactful players like Ayoze Perez and emerging talents who are already making a difference.

Marcelino Garcia Toral, who took over as manager midway through the last season, has been pivotal in this transformation. His strategy has focused on rejuvenating the squad by introducing younger, more dynamic players.

The departure of veterans like Jose Luis Morales, Francis Coquelin, Etienne Capoue, and Pepe Reina has been countered by the arrivals of Thierno Barry, Pape Gueye, Nicolas Pepe, Logan Costa, and Willy Kambwala, injecting fresh energy into the team.

Defensively, Villarreal have made notable improvements. Despite initial struggles, the signing of Logan Costa for 19 million euros and the impressive form of Diego Conde in goal have bolstered their defensive stability.

Last season, Villarreal had one of the worst defensive records in La Liga, but they are now starting to show more resilience.

Marcelino, who took charge when the team was near relegation, has proven to be the catalyst for change. Transforming Villarreal from a struggling side into a team contending for Champions League spots, Marcelino's impact has been profound.

With a similar point tally to last season at the time of his arrival and having outlasted two previous managers, Marcelino is now celebrated as the perfect fit for Villarreal's ambitions.

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