MADRID, July 3 (Xinhua) -- La Liga side Villarreal has signed central defender Rafa Marin on loan from Serie A champions Napoli for the coming season in which Marcelino Garcia Toral's side will play in the Champions League.

The 23-year-old Spaniard returns to his homeland after just a year in Italy, with Villarreal having the option to make the loan deal permanent at the end of next season.

Marin's arrival helps to cover for the retirement of veteran stopper Raul Albiol and the departure of Eric Bailly, who was released by the club when his contract expired in June.

Marin came through Sevilla's youth system before moving to Real Madrid and making 65 appearances for the club's B-team.

He enjoyed a successful 2023-24 season on loan with Alaves and also became a regular in the Spain Under-21 side, although his move to Napoli last summer has not been a success, with just six appearances for the Italian side. ■