Villarreal and Deportivo Alavés are set to clash in a match with significant implications at both ends of the La Liga table. Alavés are fighting to stay out of the relegation zone, while Villarreal have aspirations of reaching the Liga de Campeones.
The match marks Quique Sánchez Flores’s debut at Mendizorroza.
Alavés Look to History Amidst Suspensions
Alavés are hoping history repeats itself, as Villarreal have not won in their last four visits to Vitoria. The home side come into the match after a defeat in Valencia.
Despite the loss, the team remains outside of the relegation zone, holding a two-point advantage. However, Quique Sánchez Flores faces challenges in maintaining his preferred setup due to several absences.
Facundo Garcés is suspended by FIFA, while Jon Pacheco and Ander Guevara are also suspended after being sent off in the previous match. Carlos Protesoni is also out injured.
There is some good news for Alavés, as Víctor Parada and Pablo Ibáñez are available. Both are in contention for a place in the starting eleven.
The lack of available centre-backs could lead to a debut for Ville Koski, who was signed in the winter transfer window but has only just recovered from an injury. Parada, Tenaglia, and Otto are likely to be the chosen defenders, with Yusi and Ángel on the wings.
In midfield, Pablo Ibáñez is expected to partner Antonio Blanco and Carles Aleñá. Lucas Boyé and Toni Martínez are set to lead the attack for a team that is currently on a five-match winless streak, including three matches at home.
Villarreal Aim for Away Win to Boost Champions League Hopes
Villarreal will be looking to replicate their strong home form on the road. The team has failed to win in four of their last five away matches.
Villarreal are currently level on points with Atlético, who sit third in the table. The team are aiming to secure a Champions League spot as quickly as possible and extend their lead over Real Betis, who are eleven points behind with eleven games remaining.
Willy Kambwala has been included in the squad for the first time this season, after recovering from an injury. Logan Costa, Ayoze Pérez and Juan Foyth are still out injured.
Gerard Moreno could feature in the starting eleven. Pau Navarro had to leave the field against Elche with physical problems, and Marcelino may have concerns about starting him.
Villarreal will try to maintain or increase the distance with their closest competitor, Real Betis.