Possible Lineups for Valencia vs Celta Vigo in La Liga Matchday 22

Valencia will host Celta Vigo on Sunday at 16:15 in a crucial match for both teams. While the home side aims to strengthen its position in the standings, the visitors cannot afford any complacency. Both coaches, Carlos Corberán and Claudio Giráldez, are finalizing their lineups, with several key players missing due to injuries and suspensions.

Valencia's Injury Concerns and Potential Lineup

One of the biggest concerns for Valencia is the availability of Hugo Duro and Enzo Barrenechea. Barrenechea is still recovering from a foot injury sustained against Real Sociedad, while Duro underwent medical tests that ruled out a serious issue, but his participation remains uncertain. Additionally, Thierry Correia is unavailable as he is not registered.

Despite the heavy defeat against Barcelona, goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili is expected to start. The defense will likely feature Dimitri Foulquier, César Tárrega, Cristhian Mosquera, and José Luis Gayà. Gayà, Valencia’s captain, will play a key role in leading the defense and providing attacking support from the left flank.

In midfield, Pépelu and Javi Guerra will form the double pivot, unless Barrenechea is fit to start. Diego López and Luis Rioja will play on the wings, while André Almeida is set to operate as the attacking midfielder. If Hugo Duro is available, he will lead the attack; otherwise, Mouctar Diakhaby or Umar Sadiq could take his place.

Valencia's Possible Lineup

• Goalkeeper: Giorgi Mamardashvili
• Defenders: Dimitri Foulquier, César Tárrega, Cristhian Mosquera, José Luis Gayà
• Midfielders: Diego López, Pépelu, Javi Guerra, Luis Rioja
• Attacking Midfielder: André Almeida
• Forward: Hugo Duro (or Umar Sadiq if Duro is unavailable)

For more details, read:
Hugo Duro and Enzo Barrenechea's availability for Valencia vs Celta Vigo

Celta Vigo's Injury Crisis and Expected Lineup

Celta Vigo faces a serious injury crisis, with five key players ruled out. Iago Aspas and Alfonso Espino are suffering from muscle tears and have not returned to team training. Óscar Mingueza is suspended after calling referee Ortiz Arias a "bully," while Hugo Álvarez and Marcos Alonso will miss the match due to accumulated yellow cards.

Despite these absences, coach Claudio Giráldez will try to put together a competitive lineup. Iván Villar is expected to start in goal, with a backline featuring Kevin Vázquez, Unai Núñez, Carl Starfelt, and Manu Sánchez.

In midfield, Fran Beltrán and Renato Tapia are likely to form the double pivot, while Jonathan Bamba, Luca de la Torre, and Williot Swedberg will support the attack. Jørgen Strand Larsen is set to lead the frontline.

Celta Vigo's Possible Lineup

• Goalkeeper: Iván Villar
• Defenders: Kevin Vázquez, Unai Núñez, Carl Starfelt, Manu Sánchez
• Midfielders: Fran Beltrán, Renato Tapia
• Attacking Midfielders: Jonathan Bamba, Luca de la Torre, Williot Swedberg
• Forward: Jørgen Strand Larsen

For more details, read:
Celta Vigo's injury crisis ahead of their match against Valencia

Key Factors to Watch

1. Can Valencia Take Advantage of Celta's Weaknesses?

Celta Vigo’s defensive struggles due to absences could provide an opportunity for Valencia’s attacking players. If Hugo Duro is fit, his ability to exploit gaps in Celta’s defense could be decisive.

2. Celta Vigo’s Response to Adversity

With five players missing, Celta’s depth will be tested. Their ability to maintain defensive stability while posing an attacking threat will be crucial to securing a positive result.

3. The Midfield Battle

Valencia’s Pépelu and Javi Guerra will need to control the midfield against Celta’s Fran Beltrán and Renato Tapia. Whichever duo dominates possession and dictates the tempo could have a major impact on the game’s outcome.

For more updates on La Liga and team performances, check:
Valencia's struggles after the Barcelona defeat
Iker Losada's return to Celta Vigo from Real Betis

Valencia and Celta Vigo both have a lot at stake in this match, making it a must-watch encounter in La Liga’s Matchday 22.

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