News
FRI 26.02.2016
Jose Luis Morales (Levante UD)
Villarreal CF, Levante's opponents, will have to keep a close watch on the Madrilenian, who has helped jolt the Granotes back to life. Morales's electric performances up the wing, together with the impact made by new signings Giuseppe Rossi and Joan Verdu, have sparked a resurgence for Rubi's side, who showed what they are capable of by dispatching Getafe 3-0 last matchday.
Ivan Rakitic (FC Barcelona)
One of Luis Enrique's most used players, his versatility has proven a boon for the Asturian coach. The Croat has played all over the shop in midfield this season but, unlike his position, his form has remained constant. This weekend sees him lock horns with the club where he shot to LaLiga prominence: Sevilla FC.
Vicente Iborra (Sevilla FC)
Speaking of Sevilla, one of the men Rakitic and co. will be coming up against is Iborra. He scored in the win over the Azulgranas in the reverse fixture and his aerial prowess makes him a dangerous weapon for Unai Emery's team from crosses and set pieces. Instrumental in the 2-1 victory at the Sanchez-Pizjuan earlier in the season, he may have to exert even more influence if his side are to triumph this time round, with Barça flying and Ever Banega suspended.
Santi Mina (Valencia CF)
One of the poster boys for Valencia's revival. His stunning display in the 6-0 Europa League last-32 first-leg rout of SK Rapid Wien, in which he scored twice and set up a further three goals, exemplified the young forward's upturn in fortunes, and he followed that up by bagging a decisive strike against Granada CF last weekend. His next challenge is to keep this run going by finding the net against Athletic Club.
Victor Ruiz (Villarreal CF)
Having only missed two of 25 league fixtures, he is one of the linchpins of the Villarreal defence, proving influential in the Yellow Submarine's current 12-match LaLiga unbeaten streak in which they have only conceded four times. Besides helping to run a tight ship at the back, the classy left-footer also excels at bringing the ball out, an aspect of his game that could come to the fore against Levante.
© LALIGA - 2016