Villarreal manager Unai Emery has stated he is aware of the 'difficulties' that Manchester United will pose in the Europa League final later this month.
The Spanish side dispatched Emery's former employers Arsenal in the semi-finals, preventing an all-English affair in the final in Gdansk.
United, by Emery's own admission, are the favourites to lift the trophy on May 26th - which would put the former Sevilla boss as the most successful manager in the competition's history, having lifted the title three times during his spell in Seville.
However, Villarreal showed their strength in defeating Arsenal in the semi-finals and Emery is proud of his side's accomplishments.
"(I feel) satisfaction and happiness for what we have accomplished, playing in the final against the favourites of this tournament since the start," he said after the match.
"Manchester United, they showed their potential throughout the competition. We put a lot of commitment into this tournament and we eliminated Arsenal in the semi-finals, the other favourites for the title.
"We are aware of the difficulties Manchester United will pose to us but we are also proud of playing in a match of such a high level."
While United can place the majority of their focus towards the Europa League final, with a top-four finish in the Premier League within touching distance, Villarreal face further domestic challenges.
A top-six finish is required to secure continental football next season for the Yellow Submarines, should they suffer defeat in the final.
Villarreal currently sit sixth in the standings, a single point ahead of Real Betis and one point behind Real Sociedad.
