Roig defends Pérez and sends message to critical fans: "I've never whistled in my life"

Villarreal president Roig backed manager Íñigo Pérez, denying the win over Getafe was an ultimatum and urging fans to support the project despite recent criticism.

Villarreal president Fernando Roig defended manager Íñigo Pérez on Tuesday, making clear that the team's victory over Getafe was not a make-or-break test for the coach. "It's not a revalidation, it's a good triumph for the whole team, not for Íñigo, but for Villarreal," Roig said.

Roig reaffirmed his confidence in the project, stating: "We've backed a project that I believe is very good and that's why I'm sure and confident that the results will be very good." He noted the team has 15 points and that securing survival remains the primary objective.

The president also addressed critical supporters who have booed the team in recent matches. "To the people who are now whistling and don't believe, I say that when we're up there again they will applaud. Later they won't remember that they whistled. I've never done it, I've never whistled in my life," Roig said, calling for unity during a difficult period.

The comments come after defeats to Espanyol and PSG before the Getafe win, which coincided with Villarreal's 1,000th match in La Liga.