Villarreal have announced the departure of goalkeeper Sergio Asenjo.

In a statement, Villarreal confirmed Asenjo's exit as he comes off contract this month:

"Sergio Asenjo will not stay at Villarreal CF. The goalkeeper and the club will head their separate ways after nine seasons and 258 matches. In fact, Asenjo has the honour of being the goalkeeper to have played the most matches for the Yellows, ahead of Diego López (230). Furthermore, he is one of the players who was part of the squad that won Villarreal CF's first ever title, the UEFA Europa League, in 2021.

"In the summer of 2013, he joined Villarreal on loan. That season, he started 35 matches and, thanks to his great performances, the next season, the club brought him in on a permanent basis. His great trajectory with the club has made him a legend for the Yellow Submarine.

"A senior international with Spain, Asenjo came through the ranks at Real Valladolid, with whom he made his top-flight debut in the 2007/08 season, against Villarreal, when he was just 18 years old. He has also played for Atlético de Madrid and Málaga CF. Despite having bad luck with injuries, Asenjo has shown how he is a role model in overcoming adversity for young athletes.

"Villarreal CF would like to thank Sergio Asenjo for his hard work, dedication and professionalism throughout these nine years and would like to wish him the best of luck in the future.

"More than a goalkeeper. A Villarreal legend."