Rafa Marín Joins Villarreal on Loan from Napoli with €15m Buy Option

Rafa Marín has signed for Villarreal from Napoli on a season-long loan deal with a €15m buy option and 10% sell-on clause included, pending official confirmation. The Spanish defender joined the Italian club from Real Madrid last summer but struggled to find regular playing time.

Villarreal boss Marcelino was determined to improve his defensive options before the end of the Summer transfer window, as they prepare for next season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Marín has now been given the chance to reignite his career at the Estadio de la Ceramica, and he is eager to repay Villarreal’s faith in him.

The 22-year-old has expressed his delight over the move and insists he has joined the club with the hope of winning trophies.

WHAT MARÍN SAID

Marín told reporters at his official unveiling in Spain:

“This for me is a great opportunity to enjoy myself again and to feel and display all my abilities at a club where I have felt the affection of everybody and all the people have been spectacular.

“When I arrived 48 hours ago, I felt the love of the club. These are the factors that had the greatest influence on my decision.

“The coach is a great coach who has already marked an era in the club, with titles. He’s very important, but the main reason is to want to grow, to enjoy every minute. I consider this stage as an examination and I am so thankful and happy I will be able to share dressing room with such incredible players.

“We have to give up everything, István [Kovács] and I want to help the club in all possible ways to fulfil Villarreal supporters’ dreams. We may not have thought about qualifying for the UEFA Champions League. But once here, when you arrive at the club and see the facilities and people, you change your mind and change the gear. Anything is possible. You cannot stop dreaming.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Villarreal finished 5th in the La Liga, and as such will play the Champions League qualifiers, with the goal of reaching the group stage. Marin will prove to be a useful addition to the squad, as they try to repeat last season’s feat.