Villarreal vs Levante - La Liga

The La Liga returns to the home ground on September 20, 2026, where Villarreal and Levante will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Manchester City face the K-League All-Stars in Seoul on Wednesday as part of their pre-season tour of Asia.

Villarreal head into the contest positioned 19th in the La Liga standings, while Levante arrive sitting 14th. The hosts are desperate for a lift, with LLLLL in their last five and a win rate of 0% that underscores the size of the task facing them. Levante have found wins elusive, LDWDL in their last five underscoring a win rate of 20%. The contrast in attacking output — 1.4 versus 1.4 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. One position every Premier League club still needs to strengthen in before the transfer window closes.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Villarreal favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Levante are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. In possession, Silva has the confidence to play forwards rather than simply recycling possession.

With Raphinha leading the league's scoring charts at 6 goals, the contest is unlikely to be short of attacking intent. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. Another midfielder remains on the agenda with Manu Kone and Aurelien Tchouameni among those linked to a move to Old Trafford.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Levante look well-equipped to take the points on the road, with a 1-2 victory well within their reach. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Manchester City will begin another Premier League season with major uncertainty hanging over the club after league chief executive Richard Masters admitted the long-awaited verdict on their financial case has taken longer than expected.