The 46-year-old Plaza, who has managed a host of Spanish clubs including a spell as Villarreal's B team manager in 2005-06, has signed a deal until the end of the season.Former Villarreal midfielder Calleja, 40, took over in September 2017 and led The Yellow Submarine to a fifth-placed finish and Europa League qualification last season.
However, this campaign the club has struggled, winning just once in La Liga since September, and their progress through to the knockout stages in Europe is still in the balance.
"Villarreal has decided to rescind Javi Calleja’s contract as first team coach. The club would like to thank the coach for his work, dedication and professionalism since taking over last season," read a club statement.
(Reporting by Joseph Cassinelli; Editing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg and Ken Ferris)
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