Levante UD is preparing for a high-voltage duel this Sunday against LaLiga leaders FC Barcelona, with the significant absence of forward Etta Eyong. The match, corresponding to the fifth matchday according to a Superdeporte report, will kick off at 16:15 at the Ciutat de València stadium. The Granotes, sitting eleventh with five points after a start of one win, two draws, and one loss, face the leaders with a seven-point gap.
On Wednesday, after a rest day on Tuesday, Luis Castro's coaching staff resumed work at the Buñol training ground. The Portuguese manager has scheduled three additional sessions to fine-tune the final details against a powerful opponent. The absence of Etta Eyong, injured in his right anterior rectus muscle, is a setback for the Valencian side's attacking options.
Who is Etta Eyong and what his absence means
Etta Eyong is a Cameroonian international centre-forward who has become a key piece in Luis Castro's system. His injury, confirmed this week, rules him out for one of the most demanding fixtures on the calendar. Losing a player with his physical attributes and finishing ability forces the manager to reconfigure his attack. The team has scored five goals and conceded five in the first four matchdays, showing a balanced record that needs improvement against elite opposition. The full squad is available to view on our squad page.
How Levante arrives for the Barcelona match
Levante UD approaches this fixture with an irregular run of results, reflected in their recent DWDL form. With five points in hand, the objective will be to get something against a Barcelona side leading the table alone. Castro's team showed defensive solidity in some phases, but now must prove it against the best attack in the competition. The upcoming home game on September 13 represents a chance to make a statement and climb positions in the league standings.
Luis Castro's planning for the week
Luis Castro and his staff have designed an intensive week of work focused on Sunday. The three extra sessions aim to correct tactical aspects and prepare the players for the pace and pressure Barcelona will impose. Concentration is at its peak, knowing a mistake can be costly against a rival that capitalizes on any opportunity. The squad is also working on alternatives to cover for Eyong's absence, testing different combinations in the attacking zone.
Sunday's match is the first in a series of important September fixtures. Fans can follow the team's full schedule in our fixtures section. Levante UD, with a full stadium behind them, will look to surprise the leaders and secure three valuable points for their 2026-27 campaign trajectory.
