In football betting, understanding a team’s scoring history is not only a reference but also a practical tool to increase the odds of winning bets. Villarreal – the team known as the “Yellow Submarine” – has produced many excellent goal scorers over the years, from early icons to modern strikers who have had a great influence in La Liga. Based on historical data and the typical playing style of each player, players can build a more effective betting strategy for each match. Below Bestsoccertips.com shares the list of the top 7 Villarreal best players ever and notable betting suggestions for each name.
Top 7 Villarreal best players ever
Villarreal, from a humble team to continental level, has witnessed many legends contributing to that magical journey. Below are 8 Villarreal best players ever who have made the team’s yellow shirt shine.
Top 7: Cédric Bakambu – 48 Goals
Cédric Bakambu was one of the most prolific and efficient strikers for Villarreal during the period from 2015 to 2018, recording an impressive tally of 48 goals in just 105 appearances. He was particularly renowned for his exceptional pace, clinical finishing ability, and his knack for exploiting defensive errors by opposing teams. The tactical setup of Villarreal during that era, which emphasized swift counter-attacks, was perfectly tailored to maximize Bakambu’s strengths.
From a betting perspective, Bakambu was a highly valuable asset in several types of markets. His scoring consistency and style of play made him a strong candidate for markets such as “Anytime Goalscorer,” “Player to Score from a Counter-Attack,” or “Player to Score in Both Halves.” For bettors analyzing matches involving similar strikers those with explosive speed, direct movement, and wide attacking roles there is significant value to be found in dynamic betting options such as fluctuating in-play odds or alternative goal-related markets. These betting scenarios often allow for creative exploitation of Bakambu-like profiles in modern games.
Top 6: Santi Cazorla – 57 Goals
Santi Cazorla remains an iconic figure at Villarreal, having had three different spells at the club and amassing a total of 57 goals across more than 300 appearances. Despite being positioned as a central or attacking midfielder, Cazorla possessed a rare combination of qualities that made him a legitimate goal threat. His close control, technical flair, proficiency in long-range shooting, and accuracy from penalty situations contributed significantly to Villarreal’s offensive output. Furthermore, Cazorla played a central role in shaping Villarreal’s possession-based and creative style of play, acting as the team’s primary orchestrator in midfield.
In the realm of sports betting, Santi Cazorla was especially relevant in specialized or secondary markets. Bettors frequently found value in options such as “Assist to Score,” “Goal Scored from Long Distance,” or “Penalty Goalscorer.” Present-day midfielders who operate in advanced roles with creative responsibilities those who have the freedom to drift into attacking positions offer similar opportunities. Bettors should consider these types of players when exploring niche betting markets, particularly those with higher risk but enhanced payout potential due to less frequent public attention.
Top 5: Diego Forlán – 59 Goals
Diego Forlán, though only with Villarreal from 2004 to 2007, left a lasting impact during his relatively short stint. Over the course of 128 matches, he managed to score 59 goals and notably won the prestigious European Golden Shoe, awarded to the highest goal-scorer in European leagues. Forlán was well-known for his powerful long-range shooting, extraordinary free-kick execution, and ability to produce game-changing moments on his own. His contributions significantly elevated Villarreal’s attacking reputation, especially during their ascension to prominence on the European stage.
For bettors, Forlán represented an ideal model for specific betting categories. Markets such as “Player to Score from Outside the Box” or “Direct Free-Kick Goalscorer” are highly suited to players with his technical and tactical attributes. When evaluating current matches, bettors would do well to focus on attacking players who are comfortable taking shots early and from distance, as these traits can lead to profitable outcomes in high-payout markets that may be overlooked in traditional goal-scorer betting strategies.
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Top 4: José Forment – 72 Goals
José Forment played a pivotal role in establishing Villarreal’s reputation during the 1970s, particularly between 1974 and 1979 when he netted 72 goals. His playing style was notable for its simplicity and efficiency he was excellent at anticipating opportunities, positioning himself well in attacking spaces, and converting chances with minimal fuss. His intelligent off-the-ball movement and quick decision-making made him an indispensable part of Villarreal’s attacking blueprint during that formative era.
In the context of sports betting, players with attributes similar to José Forment are well-suited for markets such as “First-Half Goalscorer” or “Player to Record a Shot on Target.” These markets are time-sensitive and rely heavily on a player’s ability to get into goal-scoring positions early in matches. Historical performance data from players like Forment also serves as a valuable reference point for identifying current forwards who might exhibit similar tendencies, thereby assisting bettors in model-building and comparative analysis.
Top 3: Giuseppe Rossi – 82 Goals
Giuseppe Rossi, the Italian international forward, was one of Villarreal’s most promising attacking talents during the years 2007 to 2013. Despite recurring injury setbacks that disrupted his career trajectory, Rossi managed to score 82 goals across 192 appearances a remarkable achievement that underscores his natural goal-scoring instinct. His playing style combined technical finesse, quick reactions, and ambidextrous finishing, making him especially lethal on the edge of the penalty area.
Within betting circles, Rossi was frequently the subject of markets such as “Anytime Goalscorer” and “Goal from Outside the Penalty Area.” Present-day forwards who demonstrate the ability to strike accurately from distance or create chances with limited space often present hidden value in prop bets. Moreover, Rossi was regularly involved in taking set-pieces, making him highly relevant to wagers based on free-kicks, penalties, and other fixed scenarios within a match.
Top 2: Adriano García – 106 Goals
Adriano García was the dominant goal-scorer for Villarreal throughout the 1980s and into the early 1990s. With 106 goals to his name, he held the club’s all-time scoring record for several years before eventually being surpassed by Gerard Moreno. His style was rooted in traditional center-forward qualities physically imposing, relentless in the box, and adept at converting chances with one-touch finishes. Adriano’s presence was often a nightmare for defenders and a reliable source of goals for Villarreal during a period of growth and transition.
From a betting analytics perspective, Adriano represents an archetype against which modern strikers can be evaluated. Players with similar characteristics strength, decisive finishing, and aerial prowess tend to excel in markets such as “First-Half Goalscorer” or “Player to Score via Header.” Historical goal-scoring data from Adriano’s era also helps in constructing comparative models for evaluating the effectiveness of current and emerging strikers, especially in games where traditional attacking roles are still prominent.
Top 1: Gerard Moreno – 118 Goals
Gerard Moreno stands as the most prolific goal-scorer in the history of Villarreal, with a current total of 118 goals. He has played an instrumental role in the club’s recent successes, including their UEFA Europa League triumph in the 2020–2021 season. Additionally, he has twice claimed the Zarra Trophy, which is awarded to the top Spanish goal-scorer in La Liga. Moreno’s game is defined by intelligent movement, a versatile finishing arsenal, and regular duties on penalty and free-kick situations. His consistency across multiple seasons has made him one of the most reliable forwards in Spanish football.
From a betting standpoint, Gerard Moreno is one of the most dependable players for markets such as “Anytime Goalscorer,” “First Goalscorer,” or “Over Individual Goal Line.” When Villarreal are playing at home or facing lower-ranked opponents, the statistical likelihood of Moreno finding the net is significantly elevated. Moreover, his role as a designated penalty taker and free-kick specialist adds further appeal for niche wagers such as “Player to Score from Free Kick” or “Last Goalscorer.” In high-stakes matches or closely contested fixtures, Moreno’s scoring potential makes him an essential consideration for any betting strategy centered on Villarreal.
Conclusion
The Villarreal best players ever roundup shows the diversity of playing styles and scoring abilities over time. For bettors, relying on successful scoring patterns in the past can open up smart choices when analyzing individual or special bets. Whether betting on the first goalscorer, any time to score or bets related to free kicks and long shots, understanding the historical context will always be a big advantage. Villarreal is not only a team with a rich identity, but also a potential destination for bettors thanks to the names that have made a strong impression on the attack.
