Villarreal vs. Espanyol: Double Tribute to José Manuel Llaneza
Villarreal CF recently celebrated its performance in LaLiga EA Sports while honoring the legacy of José Manuel Llaneza. The club has secured 42 points in 21 matches, a tally that nearly guarantees their place in Primera División. This season, their efforts culminated in a toast that paid tribute to Llaneza’s significant contributions to the club’s history.
Villarreal’s Impressive Season Performance
Before hosting Espanyol, Villarreal marked its ongoing success with a traditional toast. Javier Serralvo, the spokesperson for the Agrupació de Penyes del Villarreal (APV), emphasized that although the team is achieving remarkable results, humility remains vital. He stated, “We are a humble club and know where we come from.”
Tribute to José Manuel Llaneza
The pre-game toast also served to remember José Manuel Llaneza, who initiated this tradition over a decade ago. Javier Pérez, the APV president, noted the importance of Llaneza’s legacy and stressed their responsibility to honor it. He highlighted the third edition of the awards named after Llaneza, commemorating his outstanding contributions.
During the ceremony, Pérez also acknowledged the loss of a notable fan, Ángel Castejón, who was affiliated with Llagostí Groc in Vinaròs. This reflection added a significant emotional layer to the gathering.
Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations
Club president Fernando Roig defined the event as an emotional moment, underscoring the difficulty many teams face in remaining competitive in the league. “What we have achieved is very important, but we must work together to return to European competitions,” he remarked, indicating aspirations for Champions League participation.
Acknowledging Contributions
During the award ceremony, the APV recognized significant contributors to the club and its community. The third edition of the annual awards honored:
- The Periódico Mediterráneo for its support of the club.
- Nicasio Padierna, an employee recognized for his dedication.
- The Sant Pasqual fan group for celebrating 25 years of existence, represented by Rosana Doñate.
As the matches continue, Villarreal remains focused on solidifying their status in Primera División while cherishing the lasting legacy of José Manuel Llaneza.
