Pape Gueye injury overshadows Villarreal’s derby win over Valencia

Villarreal CF midfielder Pape Gueye could face time on the sidelines after sustaining an injury during his side’s 2-1 La Liga victory over Valencia CF.

The Senegal international, who scored the decisive goal on Matchday 25, was forced off shortly after the interval following an earlier knock that left him struggling to continue.

His departure tempered what had been a commanding first-half display in a fiercely contested derby.

Head coach Marcelino García Toral revealed that the midfielder had been carrying the injury since before the break.

“Pape Gueye’s injury was due to a knock he received in the first half. He arrived at halftime with significant swelling. We hesitated to substitute him, but he wanted to continue.

And he played as long as he could. I think he had an impressive first half. I felt he was the best player on the pitch during that period.”

Gueye had been central to Villarreal’s authority in midfield during the opening 45 minutes, combining physical presence with composure in possession.

His goal capped a performance that underlined his growing influence within the team.

Despite the swelling, the 25-year-old returned for the second half after receiving treatment. However, the discomfort proved too much, and the coaching staff opted to replace him early in the half to avoid further risk.

Marcelino admitted that Gueye’s withdrawal altered the rhythm of the contest.

“We felt his absence, not only because of what Pape Gueye represents, but also because of how the match unfolded.”

The comments highlight the importance the former Olympique de Marseille player now holds in Villarreal’s structure.

Since establishing himself as a regular starter, Gueye has become a key figure in linking defence and attack, offering balance and intensity in crucial fixtures.

While the full extent of the injury has yet to be confirmed, the club will be hopeful that the setback is not severe as they continue their La Liga campaign.