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Villarreal Beat Atletico 5-1 to Claim Third Place in La Liga

The win secures Champions League qualification for Villarreal and triggers an immediate overhaul as Marcelino departs and Rayo coach Inigo Perez is reported as the likely successor.

Overview

  • Villarreal produced a 5-1 victory at La Ceramica that confirmed third place in La Liga, their best top‑flight finish in 13 years.
  • Captain Dani Parejo opened the scoring from the penalty spot in his final match for the club and received an emotional send-off after being substituted.
  • Ayoze Perez scored a hat‑trick to finish the game and Georges Mikautadze added his 15th goal of the season, the two players driving the rout that ended Atletico’s hopes of a comeback.
  • The match also marked Antoine Griezmann’s final appearance for Atletico before his move to MLS side Orlando City and completed a trophyless season for Diego Simeone’s side after cup and European near‑misses.
  • Villarreal now face an immediate managerial decision following Marcelino’s exit and are reported to be set to appoint Inigo Perez, while both clubs prepare for a consequential summer window of transfers and squad changes.