Marcelino to Leave Villarreal After Securing 2026 Champions League Berth

Villarreal manager Marcelino will depart at season’s end following Champions League qualification for a second consecutive year in 2026.

Club announces departure Villarreal's manager, Marcelino, will conclude his time at the club once the current season ends. The 60-year-old has ensured the team's participation in the Champions League for a consecutive season, with Villarreal sitting in third position in La Liga. In an official statement, the club expressed gratitude to Marcelino, saying: 'Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, Marce, for everything you have given to this club and its fans. We wish you all the best in your future sporting endeavours.' ## Manager's recent achievements Marcelino, who previously managed Marseille and Sevilla, started his second tenure at Villarreal in 2023. Last season, he led the team to a fifth-place finish in the league. Reports indicated that in January, he was offered a one-year extension to his contract. ## European campaign performance Villarreal faced a tough Champions League group stage, losing eight of their nine matches. Despite this setback in Europe, the team has continued to perform strongly in domestic competitions.