On Wednesday evening, one of the most anticipated matches of the Champions League group stage kicks off, but Villarreal will be without Israeli midfielder Manor Solomon. His absence is due to the timing of Yom Kippurβa major day in the Jewish calendar, during which believers are prohibited not only from working but also from engaging in physical activity.
The holiday begins at sunset on Wednesday and lasts until Thursday evening. For 25 hours, observant Jews abstain completely from food, drink, and any form of work, including participating in sports. Under these circumstances, Solomon cannot take part in the match, even though he had hoped to get playing time in the second half. His absence is another challenge for the coaching staff, which is already dealing with a number of injured players.
Among those unable to help Villarreal that evening are Gerard Moreno, Ayoze Perez, Logan Costa, Willy Kambwala, and Juan Foyth. However, the team received some positive news: defender Rafa MarΓn has recovered from a knee injury sustained in the match against Athletic and is ready to return to the field. Changes in midfield are possible: Santi ComesaΓ±a may replace Thomas Partey, who has not yet fully adapted to the coachβs requirements. Dani Parejo could also start to strengthen ball control.
In attack, Villarreal still cannot rely on consistent performances from Ayoze and Gerard, so most of the responsibility will fall on the shoulders of Mikautadze and Pepe. The Italian opponent is well aware of the Spanish clubβs abilities on the European stage. Juventus started the season with three victories, including a win over Inter, but then went through a series of drawsβincluding against Borussia Dortmund and in Serie A matches with Verona and Atalanta. In the upcoming match, the Turin side will also be missing several key players: Bremer, Thuram, Milik, and Miretti are all sidelined due to injuries.
The return of the Champions League to the Estadio de la CerΓ‘mica after three years has stirred special emotions among Villarreal fans. Memories of past encounters with Juventus are still fresh, especially when the team under Unai Emery nearly reached the tournament final. Back then, after a home draw, the Spaniards managed a historic win in Turin, with Gerard Moreno becoming the hero of the match.
Now, after a disappointing start in London against Tottenham, Villarreal needs points to keep their hopes of advancing from the group alive. A win over Juventus would allow Marcelinoβs team to strengthen their position and continue their successful home streak, as theyβve won all four of their previous matches at home. The Italian club will provide a serious test of the Spaniardsβ ambitions in this yearβs Champions League.
