Villarreal emphatically closed out the 2025-26 La Liga season with a 5-1 victory over Atletico Madrid at La Ceramica on Friday, as Marcelino Garcia Toral concluded his second spell as manager.
The hosts took the lead through a 30th-minute penalty converted by Dani Parejo, in his final appearance for Villarreal, after Nicolas Pepe was fouled by Juan Musso. Ayoze Perez extended the advantage just four minutes later, followed by a 40th-minute strike from Georges Mikautadze, marking his 15th goal of the season across all competitions. Antoine Griezmann briefly responded for Atletico with a header from a corner, but Pape Gueye quickly restored Villarreal’s three-goal cushion before halftime.
Ayoze Perez added his second of the match in the 54th minute, effectively ending any hopes of a comeback from Atletico. The result allowed Villarreal to secure a third-place finish in La Liga, while Atletico Madrid will reflect on a disappointing end to their campaign.
Both clubs now face significant off-season priorities. Villarreal are preparing to appoint Rayo Vallecano’s Inigo Perez as Marcelino’s replacement, according to reports. Atletico Madrid are anticipating a busy transfer window, potentially shaped by the future of forward Julian Alvarez, who has reportedly rejected a contract extension with the club, attracting interest from Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.
The comfortable victory for Villarreal provides a positive momentum heading into the appointment of Perez, who will be tasked with maintaining the club’s competitiveness in La Liga. For Atletico, the summer will likely involve significant investment in the squad as they attempt to challenge for the title next season, contingent on retaining key players like Alvarez.
