Villarreal CF faces a crucial summer with two key decisions regarding its squad. Gerard Moreno and Sergi Cardona, two of the club’s most prominent players, enter their final contract year with the Castellón-based side, forcing the club to make a call in the coming weeks.
Why Gerard Moreno and Sergi Cardona matter to Villarreal CF
Striker Gerard Moreno, 34, is a Villarreal legend. He returned to the club in 2018 for €20 million and has since made 321 appearances, scoring 130 goals and providing 49 assists. Though last season saw him play just 24 matches and score 10 goals, his experience and goal instinct remain invaluable to the team.
Left-back Sergi Cardona, 27, reaches the final year of his contract after joining Villarreal on a free transfer in 2024. His performance will be decisive not only for a potential renewal but also to fill the void left by Alfonso Pedraza, who left for Lazio on a free transfer.
New competition arrives in the Castellón defense
The arrival of Carlos Romero, who impressed on loan from Espanyol last season, adds pressure on Cardona. Manager Iñaki Pérez will have to decide who starts at left-back, especially if the club opts to renew either player.
Cardona, who proved his worth during his time at Las Palmas, has room to grow and could attract interest from other clubs if his early-season form is strong. At 27, his age and potential make him an appealing target, though Villarreal will prioritize keeping him if his performances convince.
Renewal, exit or wait? The options on the table
The Castellón-based club isn’t in a rush to resolve the situation, but time is running out. Moreno and Cardona could renew, leave at season’s end, or even be sold this summer, as often happens with players in their final contract year.
The call will hinge on their form in pre-season and the opening matches of the 26/27 campaign. Moreno, with 10 goals last season, must prove he’s still a leader, while Cardona will battle Romero for a starting spot.
