Europe is still a dream for Emery

The Estadio de La Cerámica dresses up to hear, once again, one of the great anthems of football. The Champions League returns to Villarreal ten years later, with the presence of the champion of the second continental competition in a duel that is presumed even and very attractive. It is time to get excited again in the most difficult still after having kissed the European sky just a few months ago.

An always special competition in which experience is a grade. The more than probable presence of Parejo and Albiol in the starting lineup against Atalanta is one of the great news for Villarreal since the beginning of the season. As the yellow coach recognizes, “having players of that weight makes the rest grow and the ability to compete” of a team that has experienced notable progress in recent years.

The perfect complement for footballers of the stature of Gerard Moreno – best player in the Europa League last year – or Manu Trigueros, who is excited about playing the top continental competition for the first time. It will be against the, a priori, the main rival of those from Castellón to overcome the group stage, “one of the great protagonists of Italy”. A great team, “brave and offensive”, which Emery does not hesitate to challenge at the start of the Champions League.

Before those of Gasperini, who arrive at La Cerámica with the notable loss of Luis Muriel in attack -author of 26 goals last season- and settled in the noble zone of the local championship in recent years, it will be the first litmus test for him. ‘Submarine’. An appointment that excites, and a lot, in Villarreal, where they want to achieve the first victory of the season.