Villarreal vs Barcelona: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

Explore Bwin's detailed preview for Villarreal vs Barcelona in the La Liga. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 15:15 GMT match.

• Fixture: Villarreal vs Barcelona
• Date: Sunday, 21 December 2025
• Kick-off: 15:15 GMT
• Venue: Estadio de la Ceramica

Villarreal's recent form suggests a confident side, having secured four consecutive victories with a strong defensive record. Their predicted 4-4-2 formation could pose a threat to Barcelona's backline, especially with attackers like Perez and Mikautadze leading the charge. However, Barcelona's offensive prowess, demonstrated by their high-scoring wins, cannot be underestimated. The match might see an open, attacking game with both teams looking to exploit their strengths.

Barcelona's recent results indicate a team in excellent form, particularly at home, where they have been dominant. Their 4-2-3-1 setup, with Rashford and Torres in advanced roles, could challenge Villarreal's defence. Yet, Villarreal's resilience and ability to score against top teams might keep the game competitive. Expect a closely contested match with potential for high scoring.

Villarreal have been in superb form, winning their last four matches with a solid defensive display, conceding only two goals. Their victories against strong teams like Real Sociedad and Espanyol away from home show a team with confidence and momentum. This run of form suggests Villarreal will approach the game against Barcelona with belief in their ability to compete at the highest level.

Recent La Liga Results:

• Win: 2-0 vs Getafe (H)
• Win: 3-2 vs Real Sociedad (A)
• Win: 2-1 vs Mallorca (H)
• Win: 2-0 vs Espanyol (A)

Barcelona have been in scintillating form, winning their last five matches with an impressive goal difference. Their ability to score freely, as seen in the 5-3 win against Real Betis and the 4-0 victory over Athletic Club, indicates a team in peak condition. This form suggests Barcelona will enter the match against Villarreal with high confidence and a potent attacking threat.

Recent La Liga Results:

• Win: 2-0 vs Osasuna (H)

• Win: 5-3 vs Real Betis (A)

• Win: 3-1 vs Atletico Madrid (H)

• Win: 3-1 vs Alaves (H)

• Win: 4-0 vs Athletic Club (H)

The head-to-head record between Villarreal and Barcelona shows a pattern of high-scoring, competitive matches. Barcelona have won three of the last five encounters, with Villarreal securing two victories. The games have often been close, with the most recent match ending 2-3 in favour of Villarreal. This suggests another exciting and closely fought contest is likely.

Recent La Liga Results

• Barcelona 2-3 Villarreal (18 May 2025)

• Villarreal 1-5 Barcelona (22 Sep 2024)

• Barcelona 3-5 Villarreal (27 Jan 2024)

• Villarreal 3-4 Barcelona (27 Aug 2023)

• Villarreal 0-1 Barcelona (12 Feb 2023)

• Logan Costa (Knee) - Out

• Pau Cabanes (Knee) - Out

• Gerard Moreno (Muscle) - Out

• Pape Gueye (International duty) - Out

• Ilias Akhomach (International duty) - Out

• Thomas Partey (Pain) - Doubt

• Santiago Mouriño (Pain) - Doubt

• Dani Parejo (Unknown) - Doubt

• Willy Kambwala (Ligament) - Doubt

• Gavi (Knee) - Out

• Ronald Araujo (Personal Reasons) - Out

• Dani Olmo (Shoulder) - Out

• Predicted lineup: Junior (GK), Navarro (DF), Foyth (DF), Veiga (DF), Cardona (DF), Buchanan (MF), Comesana (MF), Parejo (MF), Moleiro (MF), Perez (AT), Mikautadze (AT)

Villarreal's predicted 4-4-2 formation will likely see Perez and Mikautadze leading the attack, aiming to exploit spaces behind Barcelona's defence. The midfield quartet of Buchanan, Comesana, Parejo, and Moleiro will be crucial in maintaining possession and supporting the forwards.

• Predicted lineup: Garcia (GK), Kounde (DF), Cubarsi (DF), Martin (DF), Balde (DF), Garcia (MF), Pedri (MF), Yamal (MF), Raphinha (MF), Rashford (MF), Torres (AT)

Barcelona's 4-2-3-1 setup will see Torres as the lone striker, supported by Rashford, Yamal, and Raphinha in advanced midfield roles. This formation allows for fluid attacking play, with Pedri and Garcia providing stability and control in the midfield.

• Perez vs Cubarsi: Perez's pace and movement will test Cubarsi's defensive positioning and speed.

• Parejo vs Pedri: Parejo's experience will be crucial in breaking down Pedri's control in midfield.

• Comesana (Villarreal): Comesana's role in breaking up play and distributing the ball will be vital for Villarreal's midfield.

• Rashford (Barcelona): Rashford's ability to score and create chances will be key for Barcelona's attacking threat.

Villarreal vs Barcelona at 15:15 GMT on Sunday, 21 December 2025, will be broadcast live for viewers in the UK on Premier Sports 1.

Bwin is predicting that the score will be Villarreal 2-2 Barcelona.

Bwin is giving fans the ability to bet on various markets for Villarreal vs Barcelona, including match betting, correct score and anytime scorer odds.

Bwin brings you the most exciting offers to enhance your experience.

For the best La Liga outright predictions, explore our guide.

Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.