Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac has assessed Villarreal CF ahead of their Champions League 2026-27 group stage clash this Tuesday. The German manager's comments come as the Spanish side struggles in 16th place in La Liga with just two points from four matches. Villarreal CF's record stands at zero wins, two draws, and two losses, having scored six goals and conceded eight, leaving them ten points behind leaders Barcelona.
What did Niko Kovac say about Villarreal?
Niko Kovac acknowledged Villarreal CF's achievement of qualifying for Europe's top club competition for a second consecutive season. "Está por segunda vez consecutiva en la Champions, lo que, tratándose de un equipo español, significa algo," said the Dortmund boss. Kovac also referenced the competitiveness of the Spanish league, noting that "en la liga española los tres primeros puestos están normalmente escriturados." The coach showed understanding for the team's rocky domestic start under Iñigo Pérez, suggesting it's normal for a side to experience fluctuations in form.
How is Villarreal CF shaping up for the match?
Villarreal CF heads into the Champions League opener on Tuesday carrying the burden of a difficult domestic start. Their recent form reads LLDD, highlighting the search for consistency. With a -2 goal difference, the team needs to improve both offensively and defensively. Despite this, the club maintains faith in its European project. Fans can follow the team's progress on our stats page and the full fixtures schedule.
What is the fitness status of Karetsas and Svensson?
Kovac specifically addressed two Villarreal CF players who trained separately on Monday. He confirmed that Greek defender Konstantinos Karetsas and Swedish midfielder Daniel Svensson are fit and available for the match. The Dortmund manager explained it is a normal situation for players to train in the gym or be left out of group work two days after a game. This suggests both players will be ready for Tuesday's key European fixture.
What system will Villarreal use according to Kovac?
Niko Kovac's tactical analysis predicts Villarreal CF will stick to its usual setup. The German coach stated the team will not use a four-man back line and will maintain its formation with three centre-backs. This forecast is based on studying Iñigo Pérez's side, which has shown a preference for this system. The defensive solidity this shape can provide will be key to countering Dortmund's attack.
Following the Champions League match, Villarreal CF will refocus on La Liga, with an important fixture scheduled for September 14th. The team will host Real Betis, currently fourth in the table, at the Estadio de la Cerámica. This domestic game represents a crucial chance to secure the first three points of the season and start climbing the standings.
