An essential clash is on the horizon for Hansi Flick’s Barcelona as they prepare to host Villarreal at the Spotify Camp Nou this Saturday. The Blaugrana currently sit atop the LaLiga standings, holding a slim one-point lead over Real Madrid and enjoying a ten-point advantage over Villarreal, who have emerged as one of the season’s pleasant surprises.
During a recent pre-match press conference, Flick addressed the issue of punctuality in training, shedding light on his decision to stop benching late arrivals. This change came after discussions with team captains, which he believes has fostered a more accountable environment within the squad. “Before, it was stressful because I’d look at the clock when there were 60 seconds left and think, ‘Let’s see when they’ll arrive.’ It’s something I don’t like because it’s also pressure for me, so I decided to talk to the captains and leave the decision up to them. Since then, no one has been late, so I guess we made the right decision,” Flick explained.
Fans can catch the action on Saturday, February 28, at 10:15 a.m. ET, with the game being broadcast live on ESPN+. Betting odds favor Barcelona at -332, while a draw is set at +531 and a Villarreal win at +694.
Reflecting on their last encounter earlier this season, Barcelona secured a comfortable victory at home, scoring a penalty early in the match followed by another goal in the second half. Villarreal may feel they missed out on scoring at least once, underscoring the competitive nature of this upcoming fixture.
As for the anticipated lineups, Barcelona is expected to field Joan Garcia; Joao Cancelo, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, and Jules Kounde in defense, with Frankie De Jong and Pedri in midfield. The attacking front is likely to include Raphinha, Fermin Lopez, Lamine Yamal, and Ferran Torres. Villarreal’s lineup may see Luiz Junior in goal, supported by Sergi Cardona, Renato Veiga, and Pau Navarro in defense, alongside a midfield featuring Santiago Mourino, Alberto Moleiro, and Pape Gueye, with Nicolas Pepe leading the attack.
With Barcelona aiming to maintain their lead in the league, they are predicted to clinch a narrow victory, with scores projected at 2-1. Fans can look forward to an exciting match that promises to showcase both teams’ strengths and resilience.