Canadian midfielder Nathan Saliba expressed his excitement about joining La Liga side Villarreal, as it brings him closer to his goal of competing in the Champions League. Saliba was officially welcomed by Villarreal during a press conference where he signed a contract that extends until 2031.
Hailing from Longueuil, Quebec, Saliba is set to play alongside Canadian compatriots Tajon Buchanan and Tani Oluwaseyi at Villarreal, a prominent team in Spanish football’s top division. The midfielder emphasized the significance of playing in a top European league, highlighting his dedication to hard work and development throughout his career.
Looking ahead, Saliba eagerly anticipates the opportunity to participate in the Champions League, a long-held dream for him. He received positive feedback about his new club and the city from his fellow Canadians, who praised the team’s camaraderie and passion for football.
Villarreal, which finished third in La Liga last season, has secured a spot in the upcoming Champions League. The team has commenced the current La Liga season with two draws and is gearing up to face Deportivo Alaves in their next match.
Saliba, aged 22, joins Villarreal from Anderlecht in Belgium, where he had a successful stint with notable achievements in the Belgian Pro League. Prior to his European venture, Saliba showcased his skills in Major League Soccer with CF Montreal, accumulating significant playing time and scoring goals.
Notably, Saliba represented Canada in the recent World Cup, scoring a remarkable free-kick goal in a match against Qatar. His gesture of honoring a teammate during the tournament resonated with fans and showcased his sportsmanship on the international stage.