Villarreal CF to part with coach Marcelino at season end

Villarreal, Spain – Villarreal CF announced on Monday that coach Marcelino García Toral will depart at the end of the current La Liga season, despite the team's recent qualification for the Champions League for the second consecutive year, a first in club history.

The 60-year-old Spaniard guided Villarreal to a 5-1 victory over Levante on Saturday, securing a top-four finish and ensuring their return to Europe's premier club competition. The Yellow Submarine currently sit third in La Liga with four matches remaining, five points ahead of fourth-placed Atletico Madrid, positioning them for their best league result in 18 years.

Marcelino's exit follows unsuccessful negotiations for a contract extension. The coach sought a long-term deal, while the club offered only a one-year renewal as it shifts focus toward developing academy players and young talent. Both parties prioritized on-field success during talks, which stalled as early as December, leading to an amicable parting upon natural contract expiry.

In a social media statement, Villarreal paid tribute to Marcelino: "Villarreal CF and the Asturian coach will part ways at the end of the season. Thank you, from the bottom of our...