Villarreal CF left-back Carlos Romero was a late withdrawal from the squad to face RC Deportivo in matchday 4 of LaLiga EA Sports. The defender, who was expected to start, pulled out due to physical discomfort just before the match, forcing a last-minute change to the starting eleven.
This setback comes at a difficult time for the club, which sits 16th in the league table with just 2 points from four games and a recent form of LLDD. The team has conceded 8 goals while scoring 6, resulting in a -2 goal difference. Romero's absence adds to the already known unavailability of right-back Juan Foyth, who remains on the injuries list.
Who replaced Carlos Romero in the lineup?
To cover for Carlos Romero's unexpected absence, the Villarreal CF manager deployed Sergi Cardona as the starting left-back. This was not the only change in defence. Freeman started at right-back in place of Santiago Mouriño, while in central defence, Logan Costa partnered with Pau Navarro due to Foyth's injury.
The adjustments extended beyond the backline. In midfield, Nathan Saliba was given a start, replacing Santi Comesaña. On the left wing, Moleiro returned to the starting eleven, and in attack, the duo leading the line was Gerard Moreno and Ayoze Pérez, with Mikautadze starting on the bench. These were several changes compared to recent matches, all aimed at securing three points.
How does this absence affect the squad?
Losing Carlos Romero, even for just one match, is a setback for a team seeking defensive stability. Villarreal CF has shown some fragility at the back early in the season, and the absence of a starting full-back does not help. Sergi Cardona's adaptation to the position was immediate, but the squad's depth is being tested.
With Foyth also out, the options at full-back are reduced. The team needs to find solidity quickly, as they currently trail league leaders Barcelona by 7 points. Every match becomes crucial to climb the standings and move towards the upper half of the table.
What's next for Villarreal CF?
Following the match against Deportivo, Villarreal CF faces a significant challenge. Their next La Liga fixture is at home on September 14, 2026, against a Real Betis side currently sitting third in the table. It will be a tough test for a team in urgent need of points.
Carlos Romero's recovery will be key for this clash and the rest of a busy schedule, which you can view on our fixtures page. The team will aim to turn their form around with the return of key defensive pieces and by improving their numbers at both ends of the pitch. The upcoming week of training will be decisive in preparing for the match against Betis.
