Following their elimination from the Copa del Rey, Villarreal manager Marcelino García Toral expressed his regret, pointing out that the team lacked the ability to deliver decisive blows in crucial moments on both the offensive and defensive ends. The team's Copa del Rey campaign officially ended after their defeat to Real Racing Santander.  

Marcelino admitted his disappointment with the final result but defended the players' performance. He said, "December wasn't our best month. The opponent was very good at seizing opportunities, and we failed to capitalize on them. Although the result is regrettable, I don't think the team needs to blame themselves. From the start, the team gave their all, and the tactics showed respect for the opponent and an intention to control the game, but ultimately the opponent seized their chances."  

"It seemed like our opponents could score as soon as they entered our penalty area, while we failed to convert our own chances into goals. Their goalkeeper was outstanding, while our forwards were out of form. This defeat is undoubtedly a heavy blow, as we are eliminated from the competition, even though we still had five games to play for a place in the final. Although the situation is dire, the team must adjust quickly because there is another game in a few days. In addition to the loss, we also lost several players."  

In his post-match analysis, Marcelino pointed out that the team is still in a period of adjustment. He said, "Everything is gradual. If we are not in good form, we must recover through training. The team lacked sharpness in attack and our movements were a bit hasty. We need to improve the accuracy of our attacking players and enhance the efficiency of our defensive players in the penalty area through training."  

Finally, the coach analyzed the team's current situation within a broader context and clearly stated that he was not worried about La Liga. He said, "Two years ago when we first arrived here, Villarreal only had 12 points in the first 13 rounds. Now, we have 35 out of 45 points. In the Champions League, if we fail to achieve our goals, we must set higher standards for ourselves. We have been eliminated from the Copa del Rey, and I take full responsibility for that. Today we controlled the tempo of the game and created many chances in the first half, but lacked the necessary finishing ability. In the Champions League, if we fail to achieve our goals, we must set higher standards for ourselves."