Rafa Marín ends his spell at Villarreal and returns to Napoli

Villarreal CF

Rafa Marín has already put an end to his time at Villarreal. His farewell message on social media cleared up the scenario that had been being discussed in recent days: Napoli are bringing the defender back and plan to use him next season.

The centre-back, loaned out last summer by the Italian club, leaves La Cerámica after a campaign marked by regular playing time and appearances in three competitions. During his spell at the Villarreal, he played 23 La Liga matches, five Champions League games and three Copa del Rey ties.

In his farewell, Rafa Marín wanted to highlight what the experience has meant to him. “There are places that leave a mark forever and Villarreal will be one of them. Here I have fulfilled one of the biggest dreams I had since I was a kid: making my debut in the Champions League”, the defender wrote.

The defender also recalled the collective value of the season. “But I take much more than that. I take an unforgettable season, full of moments I will always remember, enjoying football, competing at the very highest level and being part of a group that has made history with qualification for the Champions League for the second consecutive season”, he added.

Villarreal do not take up the purchase option

The deal included a non-mandatory purchase option of 15 million euros, but Villarreal have chosen not to make it effective. Napoli, meanwhile, have activated the defender's return with the aim of giving him more weight in their squad for the new campaign.

The Yellow Submarine's decision is also explained by the recovery of personnel in the defensive area. Logan Costa, who suffered a serious injury in pre-season, returned in the final stages of the league season, while Willy Kambwala also got minutes late on.

They are joined by the progress of Juan Foyth, who injured the Achilles tendon in his left leg on 24 January, and whom Villarreal hope to have available soon.

Rafa Marín se despide del Villarreal CF:

"Hay lugares que dejan huella para siempre, y Villarreal será uno de ellos".

"Aquí he cumplido uno de los mayores sueños que tenía desde niño: debutar en la Champions League".

"También me llevo amigos para toda la vida y la certeza de… pic.twitter.com/HE59W9X2h5

— David Moliner (@DavidMolinerC) July 1, 2026