Deportivo Alaves vs Villarreal prediction 28.08.2026 | LaLiga

Alavés have made an encouraging start under Quique Sánchez Flores. Their 3-0 victory over Getafe was followed by a 1-1 draw at Rayo.

Mariano Díaz has emerged as one of the early attacking protagonists, scoring against Rayo and registering two goals and two assists during the opening stages of the campaign. His form could earn him another starting opportunity against Villarreal. 

The head coach confirmed absentee is centre-back Facundo Garcés, who remains suspended. Lucas Boyé should start despite rumours about his minor muscle injury, while Carlos Protesoni has been recovering from a knee problem.

Villarreal have shown considerable attacking potential but have also conceded two goals in each of their opening two matches. Their latest 2-2 draw at Atlético was particularly revealing: despite having only 48% possession and 13 shots, the Yellow Submarine produced a remarkable 3.60 xG compared with Atlético's 0.71. 

The draw also highlighted Villarreal's ability to threaten against stronger opposition, although defensive discipline remains a concern. They conceded a late equaliser after Atlético went down to ten men, despite having created the clearer chances.

There are currently no confirmed unavailable Villarreal players according to the latest match information. Manager Iñigo Pérez has nevertheless acknowledged some fitness concerns involving Gerard Moreno and Sergi, meaning their condition should be monitored ahead of kick-off.