Preview: Atletico Madrid vs. Villarreal

Article

September 09, 2025

Atletico Madrid host Villarreal at the Wanda Metropolitano on Sunday in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the early La Liga season. Both teams arrive in excellent form, having each secured emphatic 3-0 away wins in their opening league games. Diego Simeone’s Atletico will be determined to mount a serious title challenge this year, while Unai Emery’s Villarreal will look to prove they can once again trouble Spain’s elite.

TEAM NEWS

Atletico could be boosted by Antoine Griezmann pushing for a start after scoring from the bench last weekend. Alvaro Morata, who netted twice against Getafe, is set to lead the line, while Jose Maria Gimenez remains doubtful after illness. Axel Witsel is expected to continue in his new defensive role.

Villarreal will once again be without Alberto Moreno and Manu Trigueros, while forward Arnaut Danjuma is unlikely to be risked as he recovers from a muscle issue. Emery is expected to revert to the side that comfortably dispatched Valladolid, with Gerard Moreno key in attack.

Prediction

Both sides have already shown attacking sharpness, but Atletico’s extra freshness and home advantage could prove decisive. Villarreal may pose problems, yet Simeone’s men look well-balanced and dangerous on the break.

Prediction: Atletico Madrid 2–1 Villarreal