Villarreal Coach Marcelino has admitted he hopes Barcelona beat Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey final to aid his side’s Europa League campaign.
The Yellow Submarine ended the La Liga season in sixth place after a 4-0 final round defeat by Athletic, Marcelino citing tiredness as the reason for the hammering.
“Injuries and fatigue after 56 games,” was the explanation he gave, AS reports, when asked how the heavy result came about.
“If I said I wasn’t supporting Barca it would be a lie because we’d benefit. Not for any other reason.
“If Barca win we don’t have to play two qualifiers, and if they lose, we’d already be playing at the end of July. I can’t lie about what is obvious and benefits us.”
Marcelino also offered some kind words for Andoni Iraola, one of the Athletic goal scorers, who is leaving the Basques this summer.
“Congratulations on his journey. From a distance I’ve seen he is very wise, with an exemplary track record, competitive and successful.
“I think his behaviour and his career should serve as an example for other people in the Athletic cantera.”
