"The Blaugrana can head into the holiday break with a comfortable lead at the top of the table with a win in this one, and will be facing a Villarreal side that are on fire in the league but arrive at this big game with several key absences and coming off a shocking early exit in the Copa del Rey in midweek."
"If The Wizard is indeed left out, Frenkie de Jong is the natural replacement alongside the ever-present Eric Garcia in the double pivot. Raphinha will likely start again in the number 10 role, though Fermín López had a strong outing in midweek and could regain his spot in the XI if Flick decides to be slightly more cautious on the road."
Barcelona travel to Villarreal in the final match before the holiday break with the opportunity to become winter champions. Villarreal are in strong league form but face key absences and a surprising Copa del Rey exit. Flick rested regulars in the cup and plans to field his strongest available side for this crucial league game. The established back four of Koundé, Cubarsí, Gerard Martí and Balde will start with Joan Garcia in goal. Pedri's slight calf issue creates midfield uncertainty, with Frenkie de Jong likely to partner Eric Garcia and Raphinha expected in an advanced role unless Fermín López is selected.
Read at Barca Blaugranes
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