Villarreal will be missing at least nine players in their highly anticipated match on Sunday against La Liga leaders Barcelona, delivering a major blow to the team ahead of one of the toughest challenges of the season.

The reports confirmed that the absences include Sergio Cardona, Juan Foyth, as well as Logan Costa, Ismaila Coumbala, and Santiago Morino, which presents the coach with significant challenges in the defensive line.

The "Yellow Submarines" will also miss the services of midfielder Thomas Partey and veteran striker Gerard Moreno, both highly experienced players, which could potentially affect the balance on the field.

The list of absences continues with the absence of Babi Gaye and Ilyas Achouch, bringing the number of unavailable players to at least nine, at a time when Villarreal is striving to achieve a positive result despite the difficult circumstances against the La Liga leader.