Estadio de la Cerámica hosts a mouth-watering clash on Sunday as Villarreal welcome Hansi Flick's Barcelona. A meeting between two teams who love to attack.
The Lamine Yamal Question
The big question mark on Barcelona's side concerns Lamine Yamal's fitness. The 18-year-old prodigy has been battling a persistent groin injury (pubalgia) that has created tension between Barcelona and the Spanish national team. After missing several games this season, the La Masia phenomenon continues to play through the pain.
The situation is concerning: the player requested to be treated by different staff members, unhappy with how his recovery was being handled. A Belgian groin injury specialist was consulted and his findings were reassuring, but caution remains the watchword.
Yamal will be suspended for the next Champions League game against Slavia Prague (third European yellow card), but should feature against Villarreal where he already has 2 goals and 3 assists this season.
Barcelona's Injury Crisis
Beyond Yamal, Barcelona's medical department is under fire. Gavi, Raphinha (recently back), ter Stegen and several other key players have suffered physical setbacks. A damning report has criticized the club's injury recovery management.
Villarreal: Dangerous Hosts
The Yellow Submarine have beaten Barcelona in two of their last three home meetings! Last season saw a crazy 5-3 thriller. Ayoze Pérez (18 goals) leads an attack averaging 2.5 goals per home game.
Prediction: Goals galore expected. 2-3
