Iñigo Pérez’s Villarreal chase first win in Vitoria against Alavés | OneFootball

Iñigo Pérez’s Villarreal travel to Mendizorroza on Friday, 21.30 on Dazn, chasing their first win of his tenure. According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, they want to build on draws with Racing de Santander and Atlético de Madrid, having outplayed the latter yet letting two points slip with a man more. A victory tonight would make it five of nine away while they reshape their style.

The new Villarreal look more dominant, press with greater intensity and attack with more ambition, though they are still ironing things out as they adapt to Pérez’s ideas.

Pérez said he has his full squad available and Nathan Saliba could debut. The XI may change little for a third straight game, and Alassane Diatta returns from suspension to swell the midfield options.

Luiz Junior is set to continue in goal after a testing start. In defence, Mouriño, Foyth, Veiga and Carlos Romero will try to deliver a first clean sheet.

Comesaña and Pape Gueye will anchor midfield with Moleiro and Nicolas Pepe wide, and either Ayoze or Gerard in the hole after the latter’s bright minutes at the Metropolitano. Mikautadze will lead the line, with Pérez keen for him to roam to help create.

Villarreal drew 1-1 here last time after a late stunner from Nicolas Pepe, and lost 1-0 on the previous visit despite finishing with two players more. Alavés have four points from a strong start.

Quique Flores sticks with a rugged back five. Sivera is in goal, Tenaglia leads the defence, and much of the play runs through Antonio Blanco or the young Mikel Rodíguez. With width, Toni Martínez and Boyé attack the area, and Mariano is in reserve with two goals after four years without scoring.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo

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