Villarreal star points out what’s different about Flick’s Barcelona, praises ‘world-class’ duo

The league calendar takes Barcelona to La Ceramica on Sunday for a game that will not be easy by any means as they take on Villarreal in La Liga.

Coming off a defeat, the Blaugrana are relatively vulnerable and taking on Marcelino’s in form side away from home will be an uphill challenge.

Notably, however, Barcelona are unbeaten in 16 games at the venue and will look to extend that streak at the weekend.

Villarreal mainstay speaks on Barcelona

Ahead of the weekend’s showdown between the two in-form sides, Villarreal midfielder Alejandro Baena spoke to the media and commented on Barcelona’s style of play this season and how it differed from previous editions.

“It’s not the Barcelona of a few years ago that didn’t generate and score so many goals. This team is very vertical,” said Baena in an interview with Gol.

“They put pressure on you all the time and don’t let you breathe,” he added on the Catalans’ renewed efforts off the ball.

Baena then went on to praise two of Barcelona’s biggest young stars, Pedri and Lamine Yamal, saying,

“Pedri and Lamine Yamal are like two 10-year-old kids, very humble. As footballers, they are world-class.”

Baena is expected to start for The Yellow Submarines at La Ceramica and has been in fine form this season.

In just four games in La Liga so far, the 23-year-old has provided two assists, created four big chances and averages a staggering 4.5 key passes per game. Needless to say, he will be the cause of many of Barcelona’s worries on the night.

For the Blaugrana, the clash is all about regrouping mentally and returning stronger than ever to the field.