Deportivo Alaves vs Villarreal prediction 13.03.2026 | La Liga

Life back in La Liga has not exactly been comfortable for El Glorioso. Since returning through the 2023 promotion playoffs, survival has been the main goal. Last season’s 15th place already felt tense. Sitting 16th now probably feels even worse for supporters who remember calmer campaigns.

Quique Sánchez Flores’ side enter this match on a six game winless run across all competitions. Three of those ended in defeat. The worrying part, honestly, is the defence. El Glorioso conceded at least two goals in five of those matches. Supporters have reasons to feel uneasy.

However, home form gives a bit of encouragement. El Glorioso lost just once in the last four league games at Mendizorrotza and even managed a solid win over Real Betis.

Víctor Parada returns after suspension. Jon Guridi and Jon Pacheco miss the match following red cards against Valencia.

Villarreal have spent the last few seasons hovering just outside Spain’s traditional elite. Finishing fifth in two of the previous three campaigns shows a club that consistently competes for European places. This year the Yellow Submarine seem eager to push slightly higher.

Form lately has been decent, although not flawless. Marcelino’s side lost 4–1 to Barcelona not long ago, a reminder that the gap to the biggest clubs still exists. Still, victories over Levante, Elche and Valencia suggest Villarreal remain a dangerous opponent when the attack clicks.

Away form raises a few quiet doubts. The Yellow Submarine have won just one of the last six road games and historically find trips to Vitoria awkward.

Nicolas Pépé and Georges Mikautadze, who share 11 league goals, should start up front. Pau Cabanes and Juan Foyth remain out with long term injuries.