Villarreal CF Squad 2024/25: A Detailed Breakdown

Villarreal CF squad prides itself in the club’s solid foundations, competitive spirit, and a relentless focus on developing talent. The Yellow Submarine, as they are affectionately known, has become one of Spain’s most consistent performers in both La Liga and European competitions. With the 2024/25 season now underway, Villarreal has a squad full of talented individuals across all areas of the pitch, from goalkeepers to forwards. Let’s take a closer look at the club’s current squad of players, their positions, strengths and skill sets.

Goalkeepers

Villarreal CF squad goalkeeping department in the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience and youthful promise, ensuring that the club has strong options in between the sticks for whatever challenges may arise in both domestic and international competitions.

1. Filip Jurić

Filip Jurić is a relatively new face at Villarreal CF, joining the club in the summer of 2024 from Croatian side Dinamo Zagreb. The 23-year-old goalkeeper was brought in for a fee of around €3.5 million, a reasonable price for a promising young talent. Jurić’s arrival comes as part of the club’s strategy to strengthen their squad with players who can offer both immediate impact and long-term potential.

Jurić, born in Zadar, Croatia, has spent much of his early career developing at Dinamo Zagreb’s youth academy. He made his senior debut with Dinamo’s first team, and after some loan spells to gain experience in the Croatian league, his rise through the ranks was swift. Known for his shot-stopping abilities, Jurić’s reflexes are top-notch, and his presence in the air during set pieces makes him an imposing figure. He is expected to serve as Villarreal CF squad backup option to the more experienced Sergio Asenjo but will likely get significant playing time in cup competitions.

2. Sergio Asenjo

Veteran goalkeeper Sergio Asenjo has been with Villarreal since 2013, making him one of the most experienced and important players on the squad. The 34-year-old Spanish shot-stopper has been an indispensable part of the Yellow Submarine’s success over the years, playing a key role in some of the club’s most important moments in recent history, including their 2021 Europa League triumph.

Asenjo, who hails from Palencia, Spain, was initially a product of Atletico Madrid’s youth academy before moving to Real Valladolid for his first senior experiences. He arrived at Villarreal CF squad after impressing during his time at Atlético Madrid and Real Valladolid. Asenjo’s ability to make crucial saves at pivotal moments has made him a fan favorite, and he is renowned for his commanding presence in goal, leadership, and remarkable reflexes. His experience will continue to be invaluable, particularly as the club looks to fight for European spots in La Liga.

Defenders

Villarreal’s defensive line is a mixture of seasoned campaigners and promising young talents. Over the years, the club has earned a reputation for producing top-notch defenders, and the 2024/25 squad is no exception. Let’s take a closer look at the players who form the backbone of the Yellow Submarine’s defense.

1. Pau Torres (Centre-Back)

Pau Torres, the 27-year-old Spanish international, is undoubtedly one of the most important figures in Villarreal CF squad defensive setup. The centre-back, born in Villarreal itself, has spent most of his career at the club, rising through the youth ranks before becoming a mainstay in the first team. His exceptional ball-playing abilities, reading of the game, and leadership qualities have made him one of the top defenders in La Liga.

Torres was heavily linked with a move to several top European clubs in previous transfer windows, with his release clause set at €50 million. His composure on the ball and his ability to initiate attacks from the back are just some of the reasons he has drawn attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs. Pau Torres continues to be a key player for both Villarreal CF squad and the Spanish national team, and his leadership and defensive prowess make him a player the club will rely on for years to come.

2. Raúl Albiol (Centre-Back)

Raúl Albiol is a seasoned veteran in Villarreal’s defensive lineup. The 39-year-old Spanish centre-back has had a long and illustrious career, playing for major clubs like Real Madrid and SSC Napoli before joining Villarreal CF roster in 2019. Albiol has been integral to the club’s defensive success, bringing stability and invaluable experience to the squad.

Born in Vilamarxant, Spain, Albiol has earned more than 50 caps for the Spanish national team, winning numerous trophies at club level, including La Liga and the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid. Despite his age, Albiol continues to be a solid and reliable presence at the heart of Villarreal CF squad defense setup. His leadership, reading of the game, and calmness under pressure make him a key figure in the dressing room and on the field.

3. Juan Foyth (Right-Back)

Juan Foyth is an incredibly versatile player, capable of playing both as a right-back and as a centre-back. The 26-year-old Argentine international joined Villarreal CF squad in 2020 from Tottenham Hotspur for a transfer fee of around €15 million. Foyth quickly adapted to life in Spain and has since become one of the club’s most important defenders.

Foyth’s pace, dribbling ability, and tenacity make him a key player for Villarreal CF squad, especially in their high-pressing defensive setup. His intelligence on the ball and ability to break forward on the right flank provide Villarreal with both defensive stability and attacking threat. His performances for Argentina in international competitions, including the Copa América, have further established his reputation as one of the most promising defenders in La Liga.

4. Alberto Moreno (Left-Back)

Alberto Moreno, a 32-year-old Spanish left-back, is another player who has been a crucial part of Villarreal’s defensive structure. Moreno joined the Yellow Submarine in 2021 from Premier League club Liverpool, and since then, he has provided consistency, energy, and attacking contributions from the left side of the defense.

Moreno’s speed and crossing ability make him a threat in the final third, while his defensive awareness ensures that he is always in the right place at the right time. Having previously played for Sevilla and Liverpool, Moreno brings a wealth of experience to the squad, including a Champions League title with Liverpool in 2019. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him an essential part of the club’s tactics.

5. José Luis Morales (Right-Back)

José Luis Morales, a 35-year-old Spanish right-back, has been another key player for Villarreal in their defensive line. Morales has had a long career in La Liga, spending the majority of his time at Levante before joining Villarreal CF squad in 2024. His leadership and commitment on the field have earned him the nickname “El Comandante” among Levante fans, and now the club’s supporters have quickly taken to his defensive qualities.

Morales is known for his work ethic, ability to bomb down the right flank, and defensive resilience. Though he’s now in the later stages of his career, his experience and tactical awareness still make him a key contributor to the club’s defensive efforts.

Midfielders

Villarreal’s midfield is filled with both dynamism and creativity, featuring players who can dictate the tempo, break up opposition play, and provide crucial assists in the final third. Let’s take a closer look at the players who are responsible for pulling the strings in midfield.

1. Dani Parejo (Central Midfield)

Dani Parejo, at 35 years old, continues to be the heartbeat of Villarreal’s midfield. The Spanish veteran, who joined the Yellow Submarine in 2020 from Valencia for a transfer fee of €7 million, has consistently been one of La Liga’s best central midfielders. Known for his vision, passing range, and ability to control the game, Parejo is the player that makes Villarreal CF roster tick.

Parejo has enjoyed a long career at top-level clubs like Real Madrid, Getafe, and Valencia, and his leadership on and off the pitch is invaluable. His technical ability and intelligence allow him to dictate play, and his set-piece deliveries are a constant threat. Even as he enters the twilight of his career, Parejo remains an essential player for Villarreal, and his influence on the pitch will be key to the team’s success in the 2024/25 season.

2. Étienne Capoue (Defensive Midfield)

Étienne Capoue, the French midfielder, brings steel and grit to Villarreal’s midfield. Having joined from Watford in 2020, the 35-year-old has been an integral part of the Yellow Submarine’s engine room, offering defensive solidity while also contributing to the team’s attacking transitions. His ability to break up opposition attacks and win crucial tackles makes him an invaluable asset.

Capoue is known for his physicality and ball-winning capabilities, and his presence allows more creative midfielders like Parejo to thrive. His experience playing in the Premier League and France’s top-tier league provides Villarreal CF squad with the composure and defensive awareness necessary in tight matches.

3. Samuel Chukwueze (Winger/Attacking Midfield)

Samuel Chukwueze, the Nigerian international, has been one of Villarreal CF lineup’s brightest talents in recent years. The 25-year-old winger, who was developed at Villarreal’s academy, has established himself as one of the most dangerous wide players in La Liga. Known for his blistering pace, dribbling skills, and ability to beat defenders one-on-one, Chukwueze is a nightmare for opposition defenses.

Chukwueze’s skillset allows him to operate on either wing, and his performances in European competitions, notably in the UEFA Europa League, have earned him recognition on the international stage. His contribution to the club’s attacking play will be critical this season, as he continues to mature into one of the top wingers in Spain.

4. Giovani Lo Celso (Attacking Midfield)

Giovani Lo Celso, the Argentine international, is a player known for his creativity and flair. Lo Celso joined Villarreal CF players lineup on loan from Tottenham Hotspur in 2022 and made his move permanent in 2023 for a transfer fee of around €25 million. The 28-year-old midfielder has already shown his ability to make decisive passes and create chances for his teammates.

Lo Celso’s technical ability, vision, and dribbling skills make him an exciting player to watch. His intelligence on the ball allows him to pull the strings in attack, and his link-up play with the forwards is crucial for Villarreal’s attacking success. His ability to score goals and create assists further enhances his value to the squad.

Forwards

Villarreal’s forward line is a mix of youth and experience, with players capable of delivering goals in abundance. Whether it’s pace, power, or technical skill, the attacking options available for Villarreal in the 2024/25 season ensure the team is never short of firepower.

1. Gerard Moreno (Striker)

Gerard Moreno, the 32-year-old Spanish striker, has been Villarreal’s talisman for many seasons now. His ability to score goals and create opportunities for his teammates has made him one of La Liga’s most consistent forwards. Moreno’s link-up play and versatility allow him to operate in multiple attacking positions, whether as a central striker or in a deeper role.

Moreno’s clinical finishing and intelligence in the final third make him a constant threat in the penalty box, and his experience at the top level, both in domestic and international competitions, gives him an edge over many other forwards. He has been a crucial figure for Villarreal’s success in recent years and will continue to be the focal point of their attack.

2. José Luis Morales (Forward)

In addition to his contributions in defense, José Luis Morales has also been used as an attacking option for Villarreal CF squad. The 35-year-old versatile forward brings experience and a knack for scoring goals to the squad. He joined Villarreal in 2024 after spending the majority of his career at Levante, where he became one of La Liga’s most underrated attackers.

Morales is known for his pace, work ethic, and finishing ability. His versatility allows him to play both centrally and as a winger, providing the club with tactical flexibility in attack. His experience and leadership qualities will prove essential for the squad, particularly in high-pressure situations.

3. Alexander Sörloth (Striker)

Alexander Sörloth, the towering Norwegian striker, joined Villarreal on loan from RB Leipzig in 2024, with the option to make the deal permanent. The 28-year-old striker brings power, aerial ability, and a physical presence to the club’s attacking line. Sörloth has previously played in both the Bundesliga and La Liga, having stints at clubs like Crystal Palace, Trabzonspor, and Real Sociedad.

Sörloth’s height and ability to hold up the ball make him a unique option for Villarreal CF squads in attack. His ability to score with both feet and his head adds variety to the team’s offensive approach. He could form a strong partnership with Gerard Moreno, providing the club with a potent attacking duo for the season.

Villarreal CF’s 2024/25 squad is a blend of experience, talent, and youthful exuberance. From the reliable goalkeeping options of Sergio Asenjo and Filip Jurić, to a defensive line anchored by Pau Torres and Raúl Albiol, the Yellow Submarine has all the necessary components for another successful season in La Liga and Europe. In midfield, veterans like Dani Parejo and Étienne Capoue combine with dynamic talents like Samuel Chukwueze and Giovani Lo Celso, while up front, the attacking prowess of Gerard Moreno, José Luis Morales, and Alexander Sörloth gives the club the firepower they need to challenge the top teams. As the season progresses, this diverse squad will be looking to make its mark both domestically and in European competitions.