News Focus
- Dani Parejo confirms he will depart Villarreal when the season ends this summer
- The veteran midfielder played a crucial role in the club’s historic 2021 Europa League victory
- His final match for the Yellow Submarine will be Sunday’s clash against Atletico Madrid
- At 37, Parejo has not decided whether to retire or continue playing elsewhere
- He currently sits ninth on Villarreal’s all-time list for most appearances
Spanish midfielder Dani Parejo has officially announced he will leave Villarreal at the end of the current campaign, bringing down the curtain on a successful six-year stay at Estadio de la Cerámica. The club released an emotional video on Wednesday confirming the departure of the 37-year-old, who joined from local rivals Valencia in 2020 for a fee of €2.25 million.
During his time with the Yellow Submarine, Parejo enjoyed what many consider the finest period of his professional career. He was instrumental in the centre of the park when the club secured their first major trophy, defeating Manchester United on penalties in the 2021 Europa League final. Across his six seasons, he made 269 appearances, finding the net 16 times and providing 36 assists for his teammates.
This term has seen his influence wane slightly, with the experienced campaigner making 40 outings in total but only 18 of those as a starter. He has managed just one assist during the current campaign. His farewell appearance will come this Sunday evening when Villarreal host Atletico Madrid, with the club planning a special tribute to honour his contributions.
Despite his advancing years, Parejo remains undecided about his next move. He could choose to hang up his boots after an 18-year career that began at Real Madrid, or he might seek a new challenge at a different club. The player is currently completing his coaching qualifications, suggesting a future role on the touchline appeals to him.
Villarreal now face the task of replacing their midfield general. Reports suggest the club are monitoring Luis Milla as a potential successor to fill the void left by Parejo’s exit. The departing star currently occupies ninth position on the club’s all-time appearance charts, cementing his status as one of the most significant figures in Villarreal’s history.