Villarreal CF will start the pre-season on July 6th in Vila-real with the usual medical and physical tests, before starting work on the pitch on July 9th at the Ciudad Deportiva José Manuel Llaneza. The new Yellow Submarine coach, Iñigo Pérez, will have to resolve an important issue from the start: the overbooking in the defense.
What's next for the center backs?
Villarreal CF currently has six center backs on the roster: Renato Veiga, Logan Costa, Willy Kambwala, Juan Foyth, Santiago Mouriño, and Pau Navarro. A high number for a position where, unless the system changes, only two players usually start.
Six center backs for two positions
Villarreal has very different profiles in the heart of the defense. Renato Veiga brings physicality, left foot, defensive aggression, and the ability to initiate play. Logan Costa, also a World Cup player, offers power, aerial game, and spatial correction.
The right back, the key to the puzzle
The situation is better understood by looking at the right flank. The only pure right back on the roster is Alexander Freeman, while Foyth, Mouriño, and Pau Navarro can adapt to that position from a more defensive profile.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| League position | 3rd in La Liga |
| Points | 72 pts |
| Games played | 38 |
| Recent form | WLLDW |
Villarreal CF will have to decide whether to maintain that depth or lighten a particularly crowded position. The decision will depend on Iñigo Pérez's feelings, the needs at right back, and possible market opportunities.
