Villarreal CF Goalkeepers 2024/25: A Deep Dive

Villarreal CF goalkeepers squad has a history of developing talent, tactical discipline, and resilience in players. The goalkeeping position, a crucial aspect of any team’s defense, has been no different. In the 2024/25 season, the El Submarino Amarillo’s goalkeepers are tasked with maintaining their strong defensive record while also showcasing individual brilliance when called upon as they continue to punch above their weight in Spanish as well as European football.

Let’s take a detailed look at the club’s current short stopping squad. From experienced hands to promising talents, each player plays a key role in the club’s objectives, and we’ll explore their histories, nationalities, transfer fees, and playing styles.

1. Gerónimo Rulli

Nationality: Argentine
Date of Birth: May 20, 1992 (Age: 32)
Transfer Fee: €10 million (from Real Sociedad, 2019)
Former Clubs: River Plate, Estudiantes, Real Sociedad

Gerónimo Rulli has become one of the stalwarts of Villarreal CF goalkeepers squad, known for his consistency and leadership between the posts. The Argentine goalkeeper’s journey to the top has been nothing short of impressive, starting in his home country with River Plate before moving to Estudiantes, where his performances caught the eye of European clubs. In 2014, Rulli made his move to Spain, initially joining Real Sociedad, and after a few seasons, he landed at Villarreal in 2019 for a transfer fee of €10 million.

Rulli’s main strengths lie in his shot-stopping ability, his composure under pressure, and his leadership qualities. His reflexes and ability to make crucial saves in big moments have been key for the club, especially in high-stakes matches. A player who’s never afraid to come off his line and command his area, Rulli has played a vital role in keeping El Submarino Amarillo competitive in both La Liga and European competitions.

He has represented Argentina at international level, notably contributing to their successful 2021 Copa América campaign. As of the 2024/25 season, Rulli remains the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper for the Yellow Submarine, with his experience and shot-stopping ability making him indispensable to the team.

2. Filip Jurić

Nationality: Croatian
Date of Birth: January 3, 2001 (Age: 24)
Transfer Fee: €3 million (from Hajduk Split, 2023)
Former Clubs: HNK Hajduk Split

Filip Jurić is an emerging talent in Villarreal’s goalkeeping ranks. The Croatian keeper made a significant move in the summer of 2023, arriving from Hajduk Split in his homeland for a reported fee of €3 million. Jurić’s arrival added depth to Villarreal CF goalkeepers lineup, and many are excited about his potential.

The young goalkeeper is known for his commanding presence, quick reflexes, and strong one-on-one situations. He is particularly adept at saving low shots and is excellent at reading the game, often making key interceptions or blocking through-balls. Jurić’s tall frame allows him to be effective during aerial duels and crosses, and his confidence on the ball makes him an asset in playing out from the back.

Having represented Croatia at various youth levels, including under-21, Jurić is considered one of the country’s brightest prospects. While he has yet to break into the first team as a regular starter, El Submarino Amarillo sees immense potential in his development. He may very well push for more playing time in the 2024/25 season, especially if Rulli is unavailable for any reason.

3. Santiago Cañizares (On Loan)

Nationality: Spanish
Date of Birth: December 18, 2000 (Age: 24)
Transfer Fee: Loan (from Valencia)
Former Clubs: Valencia, Real Madrid Castilla, Cádiz

Santiago Cañizares, a name that echoes through Spain’s football history due to the famed Cañizares family, is the younger son of legendary Spanish goalkeeper Santiago Cañizares Sr. Joining Villarreal CF goalkeepers on loan from Valencia in 2024, Cañizares has a notable pedigree in Spanish football, though he is still in the early stages of his career.

Despite being relatively young, Cañizares has gained valuable experience with the senior team at Valencia and also during a loan spell at Cádiz. Known for his good decision-making and distribution, Cañizares has been described as a calm and composed goalkeeper who never rushes decisions. One of his standout qualities is his footwork, and he excels in controlling the ball and initiating attacks, a style that suits modern football.

While Cañizares is currently seen as the third-choice goalkeeper for Villarreal, he has the potential to grow into a more prominent role as he gains further experience. His development will be monitored closely, as there is significant belief in his talent, which might allow him to play more frequently as the season progresses.

4. Joaquín García

Nationality: Spanish
Date of Birth: March 10, 2002 (Age: 23)
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (from Villarreal B, 2023)
Former Clubs: Villarreal B

Joaquín García represents Villarreal’s focus on developing homegrown talent. After impressing during his time with Villarreal B, he was promoted to the senior team for the 2023/24 season. García is an agile and highly athletic goalkeeper who thrives in reflex-based situations. His ability to react quickly to shots and his sharp positioning make him a promising shot-stopper.

Despite his youth, García’s time in the lower divisions has given him a good understanding of the game’s tactical aspects, and his composure in goal has been commended. The Spaniard is known for his excellent handling and quick reactions, as well as his skills in organizing the defense. As a relatively fresh face in the first-team setup, García’s primary role in the 2024/25 season will likely be to provide backup, but his determination to improve means that he could emerge as an option for future campaigns.

The club has high hopes for García, and his future at Villarreal CF goalkeepers roster will depend on his ability to adapt to the demands of La Liga football and continue to showcase his potential as a reliable goalkeeper.

5. José Francisco Gómez “Kiko”

Nationality: Spanish
Date of Birth: June 15, 2001 (Age: 23)
Transfer Fee: N/A (Youth promotion)
Former Clubs: Villarreal CF Youth Academy

Kiko, whose full name is José Francisco Gómez, has been part of Villarreal’s youth setup for most of his career. The talented Spanish goalkeeper has steadily risen through the ranks, impressing coaches with his sharp reflexes and ability to read the game. Though he is still in the developmental phase of his career, his technical skills make him an exciting prospect.

Known for his strong communication with defenders and his understanding of positioning, Kiko is often praised for his maturity beyond his years. He has the ability to command his area during set-pieces and is known for his quick distribution from the back. With a calm demeanor on the field, Kiko provides reassurance to his defense and gives off the impression of a goalkeeper who is always ready for the next challenge.

Though currently operating in the background, Kiko has the potential to push for more playing time, especially in cup competitions. His continued progression through the El Submarino Amarillo’s ranks could see him eventually become an important part of the first-team squad.

Villarreal CF goalkeepers squad for the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience, potential, and youthful enthusiasm. Gerónimo Rulli, the club’s number one goalkeeper, has shown time and again his importance in crucial moments, providing stability and security to the backline. Behind him, Filip Jurić offers a bright future with his raw talent and quick reflexes, while Santiago Cañizares, though still developing, brings with him a rich footballing heritage. Meanwhile, the homegrown talent of Joaquín García and Kiko ensures that the club continues to invest in young goalkeepers who could become key figures for the club in the future. As El Submarino Amarillo looks to maintain its competitive edge in La Liga and European football, the goalkeepers will have a crucial role in ensuring that the Yellow Submarine’s defense remains strong, solid, and reliable. Whether it’s Rulli’s experience, Jurić’s growth, or the promise shown by the younger players, the club’s future between the posts looks bright.