Champions League Villarreal vs Napoli Probable Line-ups and Where to Watch on TV

FolioPitch.com – 13 October 2026 | The Champions League Villarreal vs Napoli Probable line-ups and where to watch on TV have been confirmed ahead of Tuesday night’s highly anticipated Group C clash at the Estadio de la Cerámica. Napoli coach Massimiliano Allegri is expected to hand Scotland international Scott McTominay his first start for the club following a minor heart procedure in September, while Billy Gilmour also returns to the starting XI in central midfield. The match kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 BST) in Vila-real, Spain, with both teams looking to secure a crucial three points in their European campaign.

McTominay and Gilmour to Start in Midfield

McTominay, who underwent a minor heart procedure last month, made his comeback as a substitute in Napoli’s 3-0 Serie A victory over Frosinone on Saturday. His return to full fitness is a significant boost for the Partenopei, who have struggled with injuries in the early part of the season. Gilmour, who scored in Napoli’s recent win over Fiorentina, will partner McTominay in the heart of midfield. The Scottish duo’s inclusion suggests Allegri will stick with the three-man defence that served him well against Frosinone, with Rafa Marin, Amir Rrahmani, and Benoît Badiashile forming the back three.

Injury Woes Force Allegri’s Hand

Napoli remain without several key players. In attack, Alisson Santos and Antonio Vergara are both sidelined, while central defender Alessandro Buongiorno is also out. These absences have forced Allegri to reshuffle his squad, with Brazilian striker Giovane reintroduced to the UEFA list following an injury to Costantino Favasuli. Giovane will compete with Noa Lang for a starting spot alongside Rasmus Hojlund in attack. Kevin De Bruyne, who has been in fine form, is expected to support the front line from a deeper role.

Villarreal’s Probable Line-up

Villarreal coach Marcelino is likely to deploy a 4-4-2 formation, with Gulacsi in goal. The back four will consist of Mourino, Foyth, Renato Veiga, and Carlos Romero. In midfield, Ilias, Pape Gueye, Saliba, and Moleiro will look to control the tempo. Up front, Gerard and Mikautadze will lead the attack, hoping to exploit any gaps in Napoli’s defence. The Yellow Submarine will be aiming to make home advantage count against a Napoli side that has shown vulnerabilities at the back.

Where to Watch on TV

For fans wondering where to watch the Champions League Villarreal vs Napoli Probable line-ups and where to watch on TV, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 6 and HBO Max in the UK and Ireland. In the USA, Paramount+ will provide coverage. Italian viewers can follow the action on Sky Sport Italia, while Football Italia will offer live updates via a dedicated live blog. Additionally, the Champions League Villarreal vs Napoli Probable line-ups and where to watch on TV information is available on the official UEFA website and various sports news platforms.

Tactical Analysis

Allegri’s decision to stick with a three-man defence suggests he prioritises defensive solidity away from home. The midfield duo of Gilmour and McTominay will be tasked with breaking up Villarreal’s play and launching quick counter-attacks. De Bruyne’s creativity will be vital in linking midfield and attack, while Hojlund’s pace could trouble the Villarreal backline. For Villarreal, the key will be to dominate possession and test Napoli’s makeshift defence. The battle in midfield, particularly between Gueye and McTominay, could determine the outcome.

Conclusion

Tonight’s Champions League Villarreal vs Napoli Probable line-ups and where to watch on TV promises to be a fascinating encounter. Napoli will be desperate to build on their Serie A win and prove their European credentials, while Villarreal will aim to capitalise on their home advantage. With key players missing for both sides, the tactical battle between Allegri and Marcelino will be intriguing. Football fans around the world will be tuning in to see if McTominay can mark his first start with a memorable performance. The Champions League Villarreal vs Napoli Probable line-ups and where to watch on TV have set the stage for what could be a pivotal match in Group C.