Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will be without Javier Mascherano when he takes the Catalan giants to Villarreal on Sunday.

The Argentine was sent off during Barcelona's 3-0 victory over Elche last weekend, but defender Gerard Pique is expected to return to the first team to take his place.

Striker Neymar is a major injury doubt with a sprained ankle, while new signing Thomas Vermaelen isn't ready to return after a hamstring problem.

Villarreal have started the season in fine style after recording back-to-back victories in the space of a week.

After overcoming Levante last weekend, Villarreal secured their place in the main stages of the Europa League with a emphatic 4-0 triumph over Astana.

Coach Marcelino Garcia Toral has a fully-fit squad available to him for the visit of last year's La Liga runners-up.

Recent form

Villarreal: WW

Barcelona: W

Possible starting lineups

Villarreal: Sergio Asenjo, Rukavina, Jaume Costa, Victor Ruiz, Gabriel Paulista, Cani, Bruno, Trigueros, Uche, Dos Santos, Cheryshev

Barcelona: Bravo; Alves, Pique, Mathieu, Alba; Rakitic, Busquests, Iniesta; Rafinha, Messi, Munir

Sports Mole says: 1-3

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