George Mikautadze: A Promising Start to 2026

George Mikautadze has made a strong start to 2026. After an initial adjustment period, he is now beginning to validate Villarreal’s significant investment in him last summer. The Georgian player displays ambition and does not rule out Villarreal’s chances in the title race.

Regarding his adaptation, he stated, “This is a very good moment for me. I have quickly adapted to the team. I understand what the coach expects from me both defensively and offensively, and I have developed a good rapport with many of my teammates. All of this contributes to my enjoyment of the game. The most important aspect has been my defensive positioning to apply pressure and manage the timing, as well as executing quick counterattacks after regaining possession.”

On improving his goal-scoring, Mikautadze said, “I have had chances that I would have liked to convert, as they were clear opportunities. I hold myself to high standards and have worked hard on my finishing to control my technique when shooting past the goalkeeper. I am aware that success is never guaranteed, but I strive to improve continuously.”

Reflecting on the beginning of the year, he remarked, “With the playing time I have, I aim to give my best. I am very demanding of myself and competitive, always seeking to perform at my highest level. I am pleased with how 2026 has started, especially with the victories. I feel decisive and important in contributing to our successes. I hope to further enhance my statistics this year.”

Commenting on his goal-scoring technique, he added, “You could say that the lob is my specialty. I have scored many goals this way. I always try to finish attacking plays in any way possible, whether with either foot or my head. Scoring goals is crucial for a player. While I have scored some easier goals, I particularly enjoy the more challenging ones and hope to continue that trend.”

Discussing the competitiveness of La Liga, he said, “I believe La Liga suits my playing style well. There are very strong teams, and what sets it apart from Ligue 1 is that any team can present a solid game plan and pose a challenge, regardless of the opponent. We are having a historic season in terms of points, but we want to achieve even more and aim to finish as high as possible.”

When asked about competing for the title, Mikautadze expressed, “Of course, I believe we can compete with the best. Personally, I even aim for the top position because nothing is impossible. We are trying to demonstrate that, even if it is very challenging. Our focus is on taking it one match at a time.”

Reflecting on the disappointment of the Champions League, he said, “It is a competition that is a dream for everyone and serves as motivation, especially since it was my first experience. Naturally, it was disappointing. However, the coaching staff has provided us with strength and motivation to remain resilient and aim for a repeat next year.”

Looking ahead to crucial matches against Betis and Real Madrid, he noted, “We are always focused on what is next. Winning against Betis is our priority, and after that, we will shift our focus to Real Madrid.”

Regarding his goal celebration, he shared, “The glasses celebration comes from a good friendship with a friend from our days playing video games together, when I would celebrate goals that way. I also have a Spanish teacher and am learning gradually; I plan to improve.”

On facing Ajax in the Champions League, he concluded, “It is a venue where I have played before, and we will approach it with the seriousness it deserves. Our goal is to win.”