Villarreal have received a significant boost ahead of their crucial La Liga clash against Athletic Club, with Senegalese midfielder Pape Gueye returning to training following an ankle injury sustained during the international break.
The Yellow Submarine will also welcome back Spanish winger Ilias Akhomach after a long-term absence.
However, concerns persist over the availability of Ivorian forward Nicolas Pépé and Cape Verdean defender Logan Costa, both of whom remain sidelined.
Gueye missed Villarreal’s previous league fixture but has now rejoined the squad in time for a key battle in the race for fourth place.
The midfielder has established himself as an integral part of the team this season, often forcing established players like Dani Parejo and Santi Comesaña to the bench.
His return could influence manager Marcelino’s tactical decisions, with the coach having to choose between a defensive partnership or a more attack-minded setup.
Nicolas Pépé’s Absence a Concern
While Gueye’s return provides optimism, Villarreal face a setback with Nicolas Pépé’s continued absence.
The Ivorian winger picked up an injury last week, and his recovery remains uncertain.
His absence deprives Villarreal of one of their most creative attacking threats, leaving the team reliant on alternatives such as Thierno Barry or Tajon Buchanan.
Buchanan has taken advantage of Yeremi Pino’s unavailability to secure more playing time and could again feature in the starting lineup.
Defensive Worries Over Logan Costa
Villarreal’s defensive concerns were further compounded by Logan Costa’s absence from training.
The Cape Verde international, who was benched against Getafe, is still dealing with persistent physical issues.
His condition has raised concerns within the coaching staff, who are monitoring his situation closely.
If Costa is ruled out, Villarreal may need to reconsider their defensive strategy, particularly with Athletic Club’s Nico Williams posing a significant threat on the flanks.
Akhomach’s Return After Five-Month Injury Layoff
Amid the injury worries, Villarreal have been boosted by the return of Ilias Akhomach, who has recovered from a torn ligament that sidelined him for five months.
The young Spanish winger will be eager to make an impact in the final stretch of the season, providing Villarreal with an additional attacking option.
As the team prepares for a decisive fixture, the return of Gueye and Akhomach offers a timely lift, but Pépé and Costa’s ongoing struggles remain a concern for Villarreal’s ambitions.
