Canadian midfielder Nathan Saliba expressed his excitement about joining La Liga team Villarreal, as it brings him one step closer to his aspiration of competing in the Champions League. Saliba was officially presented by Villarreal during a press conference on Wednesday, having signed a contract that extends until 2031.
Originally from Longueuil, Quebec, Saliba will be joining his compatriots Tajon Buchanan and Tani Oluwaseyi at Villarreal, a prominent Spanish football club competing in the top division. Saliba emphasized the significance of playing in a top European league, highlighting the hard work and dedication that has brought him to this point in his career.
Expressing his anticipation for the opportunity to play in the Champions League, Saliba mentioned that it is a dream shared by many players and sees it as a significant step forward in his professional journey. He received positive feedback about his new team and city from fellow Canadians, who praised the team’s playing style and camaraderie, fueling his eagerness to integrate into the squad.
Villarreal concluded the previous La Liga season in third place and secured a spot in the group stage of the upcoming 2026-27 Champions League campaign, commencing next month. The team has kicked off the current La Liga season with two draws and is preparing to face Deportivo Alaves in their next fixture.
At 22 years old, Saliba joins Villarreal from Anderlecht in Belgium, where he featured in two matches this season. His impressive track record includes three goals in 34 appearances in the Belgian Pro League with Anderlecht last season. Prior to his move to Europe, Saliba showcased his skills in Major League Soccer with CF Montreal, accumulating 78 appearances and scoring two goals between 2023 and 2025.
Saliba also represented Canada in the recent World Cup, contributing a goal from a free kick in a resounding 6-0 victory over Qatar in Vancouver. His tribute to teammate Ismael Kone, who suffered a severe leg injury during the match, further exemplified Saliba’s sportsmanship and camaraderie on the field.