Villarreal vs Espanyol Prediction & Betting Tips (9 February)

Since its defeat against Bétis on January 17, 2-0, Villarreal has taken a hit on the snout and can no longer find the good momentum which made it a serious candidate for the podium. Indeed, subsequently, the Yellow Submarine suffered 3 defeats in all competitions including 2 in the Champions League against Ajax 0-2 and on the Leverkusen pitch 3-0 as well as a serious setback against Real Madrid at home 0-2. Last weekend, Marcelino's men brought out the fire extinguisher somewhat by snatching a point from Osasuna 2-2. From now on, Villarreal is fourth, three points behind Atlético Madrid in 3rd but above all 13 points behind Barça leader.

6th in the standings at the start of this day, we can draw up the same assessment for Espanyol who stood out by stringing together no less than 5 consecutive victories in La Liga at the end of 2025, but unable to win a single match in the elite since the return of the end-of-year holidays. Of the 5 performances in the league since the start of 2026, 4 ended in defeat, against FC Barcelona 0-2, Girona 0-2, Valencia 3-2 and on the previous day for the reception of Alaves 1-2. 

For this shock, Marcelino (coach) will not be able to use the starting left back Pedraza, suspended for accumulation of yellow cards. Long-term absentees like Kambwala, Logan Costa and Pau Cabanes will remain in the infirmary with J.Foyth (crucial), midfielder T. Partey and Spanish international striker Ayoze Perez (injured). Arriving on loan from Sevilla FC, Alfonso Gonzalez (ex-Celta Vigo) should also stay with the trainers (injured). The talented Ilias Akhomach has been sent on loan to Rayo Vallecano. Offensively, there are some good people in this Villarreal team with the legendary Gérard Moreno (7 goals in La Liga), the former Lyon player G.Mikautadze (5 goals, 3 assists in La Liga), the former Lille player N.

Pepe, without forgetting the corridor players Buchanan (5 goals) and Moleiro (8 goals, 3 assists in La Liga). Absent due to injury at the start of the season, Javi Puado thought he would return in January, but he relapsed quickly and will probably miss the end of the season (cruciate ligaments). The starting left back Romero will not play today due to a clause in his loan which prevents him from playing against his club (on loan from Villarreal). Little movement to report among the Pericos during the transfer window, but who still hired Cyril Ngonge (paying loan from Napoli). On a personal level, R.Fernandez (5 goals, 2 assists in La Liga) and Pere Milla (6 goals in La Liga) are the two players who come out of the woodwork the most.  The probable line-ups for Villarreal – Espanyol Barcelona: