The reason why Villarreal misses out on signing Rafa Marín

The former Real Madrid academy player was really close to the 'yellow submarine,' but another player has disrupted the operation

Héctor Andreu | 22 Jan 2025 | 15.08
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<p>Rafa Marín slips away from Villarreal / Goldigital</p>
<p>Rafa Marín slips away from Villarreal / Goldigital</p>

Villarreal has seen how its plans in the winter market are complicated due to the unexpected decision of Danilo, Juventus' defender, to reject Napoli's proposal. This move was crucial for the Castellon team to close the arrival of Rafa Marín, an Andalusian defender currently playing in the Italian squad.

Even though all parties involved had reached an agreement for the loan of Rafa Marín until the end of the season, the operation was subject to Napoli strengthening its defense with a new center-back. According to 'Marca', the priority option was Danilo, but the Brazilian would have chosen to return to his country to play for Flamengo, leaving Antonio Conte's team looking for last-minute alternatives.

Rafa Marín is a priority for Marcelino and Villarreal

Among the options that Napoli is considering is Croatian Marin Pongračić, a player from Fiorentina, but with only a few days left until the market closes, time is running out for all parties. Without a new center-back in their ranks, the Italian club will not be able to release Rafa Marín, complicating Villarreal's plan to add depth to its defense.

Despite this setback, coach Marcelino has highlighted the defensive improvement in recent matchdays, with standout performances from players like Juan Foyth and Kambwala. However, the signing of Rafa Marín remains a priority to strengthen a squad that aims to approach the second half of the season with guarantees.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El motivo por el que el Villarreal pierde el fichaje de Rafa Marín