Villarreal coach Unai Emery has welcomed new signing Etienne Capoue from Watford.

Capoue, who has penned terms until 2023, is the closest thing to Vicente Iborra, says Emery. Midfielder Iborra is out for the remainder of the season due to injury.

"We already talked about being able to sign and the possibility was accelerated due to Iborra's injury. Finding a player to adapt was not easy, and Capoue's was the great option. He is a proven player. He has come with enthusiasm and the idea is that he can play in the Copa," said Emery.

"I know him from Watford, I faced him and I know him through my friend Javi Gracia. We already thought about him in the summer and now he is a great reinforcement."