Villarreal CF manager Íñigo Pérez has created uncertainty over his lineup for matchday two against Atlético Madrid by casting doubt on two key players. According to a report by Jornada Perfecta on Friday, Gerard Moreno and Sergi Cardona are major doubts after not training normally.
Who are the doubts for the match against Atlético?
Íñigo Pérez explained the physical condition of both players in the pre-match press conference ahead of the clash at the Metropolitano. Striker Gerard Moreno is carrying a minor knock, while full-back Sergi Cardona is undergoing individual treatment that requires a day's space to be effective. The manager did not rule them out completely, stating their condition would be assessed in Saturday's training session. "We are taking special care with all the players. We will see in tomorrow's training how everyone is", Pérez said, as per the report.
Moreno's potential absence would be a significant blow to the team's attack. The forward is a key piece in Villarreal CF's offensive scheme, a fact reflected in his goal history which you can check on our stats page. His participation will be a last-minute decision.
What did Íñigo Pérez say about the midfield?
The manager also discussed options in midfield, where Carlos Maciá has shown a good level in pre-season. Pérez did not rule out the young midfielder starting against Atlético Madrid, praising his contribution. "Carlos gives us a stability that the other central midfielders have other attributes, but Carlos, with how he moves, spreads that to the rest.", the coach stated.
This uncertainty in the central lineup comes at a time of transition for the team. Villarreal CF is looking to consolidate its play after a season start with a draw against Racing Santander on the opening day. You can review the full lineup and available options on the official squad page.
What is the latest on the transfer market?
Íñigo Pérez acknowledged that the transfer market remains active for the club and that there could be outgoings. The most concrete situation appears to be that of defender Willy Kambwala, whose name has been linked with Osasuna, although a possible intervention by Como could complicate the operation. About the player, Pérez commented: "Regarding Willy, I have a lot of affection for him, but if he and the club believe the right thing is for him to leave to get more minutes, then go ahead".
The manager took a neutral stance on the rumours, including possible interest in Jorge de Frutos. "The market is uncontrollable and has its own functioning.", he noted. The club keeps the door open for squad adjustments before the transfer window closes.
How does the team assess the opening draw?
Pérez analysed the first match of the season, a one-all draw against Racing, identifying clear areas for improvement. He pointed out that the key to the negative result was fifteen minutes of defensive and offensive passivity in the final third of the match. "Those are the two phases of the game we have to improve", the manager admitted.
Ahead of the clash with Atlético, the coach anticipates a different scenario but with a similar environmental intensity. The goal is to correct those mistakes to avoid being punished by a high-quality opponent. The match will be an important first away test in this 2026-27 season, and its result could set the team's early trend in the standings.
Villarreal CF now faces a demanding schedule. Decisions on last-minute absentees and the potential departure of players will define the squad's depth for the coming weeks, a factor being closely monitored in the injuries department.
