Villarreal lost 0‑1 against Espanyol at La Cerámica, a defeat which accentuated the club's difficulties in the home match. After the match, defender PauNavarro, 19 years old and a product of the youth sector, expressed strong disappointment at the attitude of some of the fans, who left the stadium before the final whistle.
Post-match, Navarro told Movistar Plus: "It is unacceptable that the stadium was empty in the 75th minute." The young player underlined the importance of solidarity between the team and the public, stating that "we must remain united and have the support of the fans". He added that the stadium cannot be allowed to be empty at that crucial moment and that the team must give their all "all together, that's what makes the difference".
When comparing the situation with other stadiums, Navarro observed that "when we play in other stadiums, in the last minutes the fans really push us", and asked Villarreal to be stronger and demand the maximum from themselves on the pitch. His words, especially for the young age, were a clear appeal to strengthen the bond with the spectators.
The result against Espanyol further fueled discontent around the club, which is struggling to find continuity in its home performances. The early exodus of part of the public is seen as a sign of a fragile relationship between team and fans. Navarro reiterated that the first response must come from the players, but indicated unity between the team and fans as a key element to reverse the trend at La Cerámica.
Villarreal will have to face the next matches with the need to consolidate their presence at home and recover the support of the fans, in order to avoid further defeats and improve their position in the standings.