Villarreal vs Barcelona Prediction & Picks - LaLiga

Prediction published on 12/21/25, 6:31 AM  by Erik Gibbs in LaLiga Picks

Villarreal enter this Sunday's LaLiga matchup against Barcelona in outstanding domestic form and firmly established among Spain's top sides. Sitting third in the table, they have put together a six-match league winning streak that has transformed them from early-season contenders into legitimate challengers near the summit. With 35 points from their first 15 matches, this represents the strongest league start in the club's top-flight history. That consistency has been built on efficiency rather than spectacle, with Villarreal finding ways to control matches and protect leads. Their league momentum has been especially impressive at home, where they remain unbeaten this season.

Seven wins from eight home fixtures underline how difficult they have been to break down at the Estadio de la Ceramica, and conceding just four league goals there highlights their structural discipline. While Villarreal suffered disappointment outside the league, including an early Champions League exit and a recent Copa del Rey elimination, those setbacks have arguably sharpened their focus domestically. With games in hand on the teams above them, Villarreal know that maintaining league momentum is crucial, and this fixture represents a chance to further validate their position among the elite.

Barcelona arrive as league leaders and defending champions, carrying an equally strong run of form. They have won seven consecutive league matches and have been unbeaten since late October, a stretch that has allowed them to open a gap at the top of the table. With 43 points from 17 matches, their consistency has been underpinned by a powerful attacking rhythm. Barcelona have been the league's most prolific side, scoring at a rate well above their rivals and regularly deciding matches early.

Away from home, they have continued to impose control through possession and sustained pressure, wearing down opponents over 90 minutes. Defensively, they have been steady rather than flawless, but their ability to outscore problems has rarely left them exposed. Under Hansi Flick, Barcelona appear settled tactically and confident in managing both high-tempo matches and tighter contests. Facing Villarreal away represents one of their most demanding league tests to date, but their recent performances suggest they are well-equipped to handle it.