Villarreal CF is set to undergo a significant model change starting from the 2026/27 season. The yellow club will again compete in the Champions League but does not want to repeat a summer like 2025, when it made a significant investment in signings.
What's behind the model change?
The new Villarreal CF club model involves reducing spending, empowering the Cantera Grogueta, and betting on young players with projection, with Íñigo Pérez chosen to lead the new cycle from the bench.
What role does the Cantera Grogueta play?
The sports management understands that the demand to compete in Europe requires a wide and prepared squad, but also considers that part of those solutions can be found at home. That's why the next preseason presents itself as a decisive opportunity for players from the current Villarreal B and the surroundings of the affiliate, as well as others who are on loan.
Who are the Cantera Grogueta candidates?
The profiles of the canteranos who are on the list to opt for the preseason next season are about a dozen players with a level that already calls the doors of the first team or, alternatively, to LaLiga clubs as loaned players. Some of the notable names are Jean Yves Valou, Daniel Budesca, Alassane Diatta, Carlos Maciá, Hugo López, and José Ángel Gaitán.
| Player | Position | Age |
|---|---|---|
| Jean Yves Valou | Central defender/left back | 20 |
| Daniel Budesca | Right back | 19 |
| Alassane Diatta | Midfielder | 20 |
| Carlos Maciá | Midfielder | 17 |
| Hugo López | Attacking midfielder/winger | 19 |
| José Ángel Gaitán | Left winger | 19 |
