Villarreal Aims to Rebound Against High-Flying Osasuna

Villarreal is determined to recover from its recent European setback and avoid a dip in results and confidence following four consecutive losses. At a critical juncture of the season, the Yellow Submarine aims to rediscover the reliability that previously propelled them to victories against teams not participating in European competitions this season. They will face an Osasuna side buoyed by high morale, competing at their best performance level of the season.

Fresh off their first away victory of the season, Osasuna is seeking a third consecutive win against Villarreal. Coach Alessio Lisci has summoned a squad of 23 players, including Raúl Moro, who could make his debut with the team. Aimar Oroz’s participation remains uncertain as he is recovering from a severe tackle received in the last match.

Villarreal approaches this match carrying the burden of their four straight losses, a situation not seen in the team for the past three seasons. Marcelino is expected to field his most reliable starting eleven, bringing back several players who were rested during the match against Leverkusen, such as Gerard, Moleiro, and Pedraza. Meanwhile, Freeman, the latest addition to the squad, is traveling to Pamplona, though his participation is doubtful due to a pending transfer.

The matchup between Budimir and Mikautadze at El Sadar promises to be a highlight, as both are notable scorers. The Croatian has netted nine goals in the league, while the Georgian has five. Budimir is on a scoring streak, having found the net in the last two matches, while Mikautadze seeks to break a two-match goal drought.