Al Ahli has expressed serious interest in Villarreal’s Álex Baena and is prepared to activate his €60 million release clause. The decision now rests with Baena, as Villarreal hopes he will remain with the club.
Baena, 23, has been a standout performer for Villarreal, contributing five goals and five assists this season. His impressive form has attracted attention from several top clubs, including Atlético Madrid, Arsenal, and Manchester City.
Villarreal is open to selling Baena if an offer meets his €60 million release clause. Such a transfer would mark a record sale for the club.
Baena has stated that he would consider leaving Villarreal only for a club among the world’s top ten, reflecting his ambition to compete at the highest level.
As the transfer window progresses, Baena’s future remains a topic of significant interest, with multiple clubs monitoring the situation closely.
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Villarreal’s Álex Baena: From Youth Prospect to La Liga Star
Early Years and Development at Villarreal’s Academy
Álex Baena’s journey began in Roquetas de Mar, where he first fell in love with football. His talent stood out from a young age, and Villarreal quickly recognized his potential. In 2011, he joined the club’s academy, where he refined his skills and developed into a creative midfielder. First, he focused on technical ability, improving his dribbling and passing. Then, he adapted to different positions, learning to play as both a left-winger and an attacking midfielder. His time at the academy shaped him into a versatile and intelligent player. Also, he trained alongside top prospects, gaining experience against elite young talents. His hard work paid off when he earned a spot in the club’s reserve team. Soon, he was knocking on the door of Villarreal’s first team, ready to take the next step in his career.
Villarreal Academy Highlights
Year | Achievement |
---|---|
2011 | Joined Villarreal’s youth system |
2017 | Promoted to Villarreal B |
2019 | First-team training sessions |
First-Team Debut and Breakthrough Performances
Baena’s first-team debut came in the 2019-2020 season, a moment he had dreamed of for years. His first match in La Liga was against Real Sociedad, where he entered as a substitute. Then, he gained confidence, proving his worth in domestic and European competitions. His breakthrough came in the UEFA Europa League, where he scored his first professional goal against Maccabi Tel-Aviv. That performance cemented his place as a rising star. Also, his ability to deliver key passes and create goal-scoring opportunities made him a valuable asset. The 2022-2023 season was a turning point. In the opening match, he came off the bench and scored twice against Real Valladolid. That game showcased his composure and finishing ability, setting the tone for his future. Baena wasn’t just another young talent—he was now a key figure in Villarreal’s attacking setup.
Key Matches in Baena’s Early Career
Date | Match | Contribution |
---|---|---|
July 13, 2020 | Villarreal vs. Real Sociedad | La Liga debut |
Nov 5, 2020 | Villarreal vs. Maccabi Tel-Aviv | First professional goal |
Aug 13, 2022 | Villarreal vs. Real Valladolid | Scored twice off the bench |
Playing Style and Key Strengths on the Field
Technical Skills and Tactical Versatility
Villarreal’s Álex Baena is a playmaker with a sharp footballing brain. His technical skills allow him to dictate play, whether he’s passing or dribbling through tight spaces. First, his close ball control helps him maintain possession under pressure. Then, his vision and passing ability make him an effective creator, setting up teammates for scoring chances. Also, his ability to play in multiple attacking roles gives his coach tactical flexibility. Whether he’s cutting inside from the left or playing centrally as a number 10, Baena adapts seamlessly. In addition, his off-the-ball movement is impressive. He positions himself smartly to receive passes and create goal-scoring opportunities. His technical brilliance makes him one of the most exciting young midfielders in La Liga.
Role in Villarreal’s Midfield Setup
Baena’s role in Villarreal’s midfield is crucial. His job is to link midfield and attack while maintaining defensive discipline. He plays multiple roles depending on the match situation:
- Attacking Playmaker: Creates chances with quick passes and movement.
- Wide Midfielder: Drifts inside from the left to exploit spaces.
- Defensive Contributor: Presses opponents and helps recover possession.
Baena’s presence adds balance to Villarreal’s midfield. His ability to press high and track back defensively makes him an all-around player. He doesn’t just focus on attacking; he also contributes to Villarreal’s overall game plan, ensuring a dynamic and fluid playing style.
Baena’s Strengths Chart
Attribute | Rating (Out of 10) |
---|---|
Passing | 9 |
Dribbling | 8 |
Vision | 9 |
Tactical Awareness | 8 |
Finishing | 7 |
Milestones and Career Achievements
Club Successes and Individual Records
Villarreal’s Álex Baena has achieved incredible milestones at a young age. His impact at Villarreal goes beyond goals and assists. First, he played a key role in Villarreal’s deep runs in European competitions. Then, his consistency in La Liga earned him recognition as one of Spain’s best young midfielders. Also, his ability to contribute in crucial moments makes him a standout performer. In 2023, he extended his contract until 2028, proving his long-term commitment to Villarreal. In addition, he finished the 2023-24 season as La Liga’s top assist provider, further cementing his influence. His rise has been rapid, and his future looks even brighter.
Career Highlights Table
Year | Achievement |
---|---|
2020 | First-team debut |
2022 | Scored twice in La Liga opener |
2023 | La Liga’s top assist provider |
2024 | 100th match for Villarreal |
Key Contributions in Domestic and European Competitions
Baena’s contributions extend to both La Liga and European tournaments. He has been a crucial part of Villarreal’s success in recent years. His biggest strengths include:
- Consistency: Plays in nearly every match when available.
- Big-Game Impact: Steps up in important fixtures.
- Creativity: Provides assists and controls the midfield tempo.
His ability to shine in both domestic and international competitions makes him a valuable asset. Whether in La Liga or the Europa League, Baena delivers top performances.
Performance in Major Competitions Chart
Competition | Matches Played | Goals | Assists |
---|---|---|---|
La Liga | 80+ | 15+ | 20+ |
Europa League | 20+ | 5+ | 7+ |
Copa del Rey | 10+ | 2+ | 3+ |
Journey with the Spanish National Team
Rising Through Youth Categories to the Senior Squad
Baena’s journey with Spain started at the U17 level. He represented his country in the U17 European Championship, where he made a strong impression. Then, he continued his rise through the U19 and U21 teams, earning key international experience. His breakthrough came in 2023 when he received his first senior call-up. Also, his debut against Cyprus was unforgettable—he scored his first goal in a 6-0 win. In addition, he played a role in Spain’s victorious Euro 2024 campaign, proving his worth on the biggest stage. His ability to perform at both club and international levels makes him a player to watch in the coming years.
Spain National Team Progression Table
Age Group | Years Played | Key Achievement |
---|---|---|
U17 | 2018 | Scored in European Championship |
U19 | 2019-2020 | Played 7 matches |
U21 | 2022 | Scored on debut |
Senior | 2023-Present | Euro 2024 champion |
Memorable Performances in International Tournaments
Baena has delivered key performances for Spain at different levels. Some of his best moments include:
- Scoring in U17 Euros against Germany and Belgium.
- First senior goal vs. Cyprus in 2023.
- Playing a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024-winning squad.
His international performances highlight his ability to shine on the biggest stage. Spain’s future looks bright with Baena in the squad.
International Tournament Performance Chart
Tournament | Matches | Goals | Assists |
---|---|---|---|
U17 Euros | 5 | 2 | 1 |
U21 Qualifiers | 6 | 1 | 2 |
Senior Team | 8 | 2 | 3 |