Villarreal shake-up: Pacheta out, Marcelino in talks for hotseat

By SABC Sport
11th November 2023

In a surprising turn of events, La Liga outfit Villarreal have bid farewell to coach Pacheta, marking their second managerial change this season.

Despite securing a victory over Maccabi Haifa in the Europa League, the club decided to part ways with Pacheta, following the earlier dismissal of Quique Setien in September.

The spotlight now shifts to Marcelino Garcia Toral, who recently departed Marseille. The seasoned coach is poised to make a return to Villarreal, a club he previously managed from 2013 to 2016. According to reports from Estadio Deportivo, ongoing talks between Marcelino and Villarreal indicate that discussions have reached an advanced stage.

Marcelino's potential return to the Ceramica has stirred anticipation among fans. The report suggests that while negotiations progress, Marcelino will not take the helm before Villarreal's upcoming clash with Atletico Madrid on Sunday. This delay hints at an official appointment during the international break, setting the stage for Marcelino to lead the team in his first match in two weeks, a crucial encounter against Osasuna.

The prospect of Marcelino's return carries significant weight for the Yellow Submarine. Having managed the team in the past, his familiarity with the club's dynamics and a previous successful stint make him a compelling choice. Villarreal enthusiasts eagerly await official confirmation, anticipating a positive impact under Marcelino's guidance.

As the managerial transition unfolds, Villarreal find themself in the 13th position in the La Liga standings after 12 games, securing 12 points with three wins. The need for a turnaround is evident, and Marcelino's potential appointment adds a layer of intrigue to the team's journey in the league.

The decision to part ways with Pacheta reflects Villarreal's commitment to finding the right leadership to propel the team forward. With Marcelino waiting in the wings, Villarreal supporters brace themselves for a new chapter, hoping for a resurgence that will elevate the Yellow Submarine's standing in La Liga.