The friendly match between Villarreal and Aston Villa witnessed a notable event with the return of young Moroccan player Elias Akhomach to the competitive scene, as he participated as a substitute in the final minutes of the match. This appearance marked the end of a long absence from the pitch that lasted 274 days due to injury.

Akhomach, who is considered one of the most promising talents in Spanish and Moroccan football, had been away from the field since the end of the previous season after suffering a severe injury that sidelined him for a long period. The player underwent an intensive rehabilitation program under the supervision of the club's medical staff to regain his physical and technical readiness.

The player's return came as part of Villarreal's preparations for the new season, as the team aims to test all its players before the official competitions begin. Akhomach's participation, even if for just a few minutes, was seen as a positive step and an indication of his full recovery from the injury.

Villarreal fans and the player's supporters hope that the upcoming phase will witness his gradual return to the starting lineup, especially with the team's need for his services in the attack, given the club's ambitions to achieve positive results both domestically and in Europe.