Valverde, who moved to El Madrigal after Manuel Pellegrini joined Real Madrid in June, bid a sad farewell to his players on Monday.

CNN: Reserves boss Garrido given Villarreal job

Villarreal denied Pep Guardiola's men the title last weekend as they scored a last-gasp leveller at the Nou Camp, and there was another thrilling climax at El Madrigal, although this time Barca were the beneficiaries of the late goal.

CNN: Real Madrid defeat hands Barcelona title