Barcelona Clash with Villarreal: Bold Predictions and Starting XI Revealed

After reclaiming their position at the summit of La Liga this past weekend, Barcelona face off against third-placed Villarreal in a crucial domestic clash.

Hansi Flick's title holders had surrendered their leading position following consecutive defeats, but Real Madrid's stumble at Osasuna provided an opportunity for Barça to regain first place. The faltering Levante served as the ideal opponent for a potentially struggling team, as Flick's squad cruised to a comfortable 3–0 triumph.

However, a challenging examination awaits, with Villarreal's arrival representing one of the most difficult remaining fixtures on their La Liga schedule.

The Yellow Submarine have secured consecutive away victories against Barça, though Saturday's home team did secure a 2–0 win in the earlier meeting before the Christmas break.

Villarreal, who suffered through a disappointing Champions League run following a fifth-place La Liga finish last term, are improbable to insert themselves into the championship conversation. They currently trail the leaders by 10 points, making only a Saturday victory capable of strengthening their extremely faint aspirations.

Barcelona vs. Villarreal Score Prediction

Barcelona vs. Villarreal Score Prediction

Barça to Overcome Recent Yellow Submarine Troubles

Barça to Overcome Recent Yellow Submarine Troubles

With Real Madrid not scheduled to play until Monday evening against a resilient Getafe side, Barcelona possess the opportunity to establish a four-point advantage at the summit. Considering Villarreal's position in the standings, they would have cleared a significant obstacle in their pursuit of consecutive La Liga championships should they emerge victorious.

The away team, however, have found success in Catalonia recently, and enter Saturday's match following back-to-back victories.

A closely contested battle is anticipated, with Frenkie de Jong's unavailability representing a major setback and Villarreal possessing the capabilities to exploit a vulnerable Barcelona defensive unit.

Prediction: Barcelona 2–1 Villarreal

Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs. Villarreal

Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs. Villarreal

Pedri's return comes at an opportune moment as Barcelona have lost Frenkie de Jong to yet another hamstring setback. The Dutch midfielder faces approximately six weeks on the treatment table, so Flick will continue relying on La Masia products Marc Casadó and Marc Bernal in the midfield engine room.

Bernal found the net in last week's triumph over Levante, though Casadó might form a partnership with Pedri this weekend.

Flick must make an alteration at the core of his defensive setup, as Gerard Martín faces suspension due to accumulated yellow cards. Club skipper Ronald Araujo will undoubtedly slot into Barça's defensive line on Saturday afternoon.

Rising talent Jofre Torrents and Andreas Christensen remain sidelined indefinitely, while Gavi has recently resumed training and will feature before the campaign concludes.

Barcelona predicted lineup vs. Villarreal (4-2-3-1): J. García; Koundé, Cubarsí, E. García, Cancelo; Pedri, Casadó, Yamal, López, Raphinha, Lewandowski.

Villarreal Predicted Lineup vs. Barcelona

Villarreal Predicted Lineup vs. Barcelona

Villarreal enter Saturday's encounter with several fitness worries. Gerard Moreno previously served as their primary attacking threat, but the Spanish striker's impact has diminished under Marcelino's guidance. He's also battled injuries throughout recent seasons, and remains questionable for this fixture due to a muscular problem.

Former Arsenal winger Nicolas Pépé has delivered an impressive season and will probably feature in the front pairing, with the Ivorian's advanced positioning creating space for Tajon Buchanan to enter the lineup on the right flank.

Juan Foyth faces an extended absence with a knee problem. The visitors are also missing Willy Kambwala, Logan Costa and Pau Cabanes.

Villarreal predicted lineup vs. Barcelona (4-2-3-1): Júnior; Mouriño, Navarro, Veiga, Cardona; Buchanan, Gueye, Comesaña, Moleiro; Pépé, Mikautadze.

What Time Does Barcelona vs. Villarreal Kick Off?

What Time Does Barcelona vs. Villarreal Kick Off?

How to Watch Barcelona vs. Villarreal on TV, Live Stream

How to Watch Barcelona vs. Villarreal on TV, Live Stream