Marcos Senna, the former star of Villarreal CF in the Spanish League, will be in attendance next week when the first-ever Villarreal 7s Filipinas Cup takes the spotlight at the Ayala Vermosa Football Pitch.
Over 67 participants from the Villarreal Academies in Sydney and Brisbane will be flying in to participate in the 13 and 14 December event.
They will be joined by the homegrown talents from various football academies led by the Villarreal Philippines Academy, the official partner academy of Villarreal CF known as the Spanish "Yellow Submarine" club competing in LaLiga.
The two day weekend tournament aims to strengthen international camaraderie among the academies and showcase the rapidly growing football culture within the Asia-Pacific region.
As a special treat for players and fans alike, Senna will be making a special appearance at the event to share his expertise, inspire young athletes, and reinforce the club's commitment to global grassroots development.
Senna, the Brazilian-born midfielder who became a cornerstone of Spanish football, is celebrated for his remarkable achievements both at club and international level.
During his 11-year tenure with Villarreal CF, he became one of the club's most-capped players, helping lead them to UEFA Intertoto Cup victories and cementing their place among Spain's elite.
Internationally, Senna etched his name in football history by playing a pivotal role in Spain's 2008 UEFA European Championship triumph, providing defensive stability, precise passing, and leadership in midfield. Beyond Europe, he also lifted titles with Corinthians in Brazil and concluded his career in the United States with New York Cosmos, leaving behind a legacy defined by consistency, skill and winning pedigree.
Prior to the weekend tournament, a media luncheon will be hosted by Villarreal Philippines Academy at the Dusit Thani Manila with members of the Philippine Sportswriters Association for a meet-and-greet with the legendary midfielder.