Atletico Madrid will head into Saturday’s clash with Villarreal facing a familiar challenge: navigating a key fixture without the influential presence of Alex Baena. The Spanish midfielder, who has become a vital cog in Atletico’s transitional play and pressing structure, remains sidelined due to a lingering injury that has disrupted his rhythm since preseason. His absence is compounded by the continued unavailability of defensive stalwart Jose Gimenez and creative playmaker Thiago Almada, both of whom are nursing injuries that have kept them out of training this week. Gimenez’s absence, in particular, robs Diego Simeone of a commanding figure in the backline—one who not only organizes the defense but also brings leadership and aerial dominance in both boxes. Almada’s injury, meanwhile, deprives Atletico of a dynamic dribbler and line-breaking passer, someone capable of unlocking deep blocks with moments of individual brilliance. The trio’s collective absence forces Simeone into a tactical rethink, especially against a Villarreal side known for its fluid attacking movements and technical midfielders.
In light of these absences, the spotlight may fall on Conor Gallagher, whose future at the club was the subject of intense speculation during the final days of the transfer window. The English midfielder was reportedly close to a move to the Premier League, with several clubs circling, but ultimately remained in Madrid. Gallagher’s retention could prove fortuitous for Atletico, as his energy, ball-winning ability, and box-to-box dynamism offer a different profile to Baena and Almada. If handed a starting role, Gallagher will likely be tasked with anchoring the midfield alongside Koke, providing defensive cover while also driving forward to support attacks. His tenacity and tactical discipline could be crucial in disrupting Villarreal’s rhythm, especially in transitions, where the Yellow Submarine often thrives. Moreover, Gallagher’s ability to arrive late in the box and contribute goals from midfield could add a new dimension to Atletico’s attacking setup, particularly in the absence of Almada’s creativity.
Up front, Alexander Sørloth is expected to retain his place in the starting XI, partnering Julian Alvarez in what could be a physically imposing and tactically versatile front two. Sørloth, who has gradually found his footing in La Liga after a mixed spell in Germany, offers aerial presence, hold-up play, and a tireless work ethic that complements Alvarez’s movement and technical finesse. Alvarez, fresh off a productive international break with Argentina, will be eager to translate his form onto the domestic stage. His ability to drift into half-spaces, link play, and press aggressively makes him a natural fit for Simeone’s high-intensity system. Together, the duo could pose significant problems for a Villarreal defense that has looked vulnerable in recent weeks, especially with key personnel missing. Pablo Barrios, meanwhile, is likely to be deployed in a wide role, perhaps on the left flank, where his ability to cut inside and combine with central midfielders could help Atletico overload key zones. Barrios has shown flashes of brilliance this season, and with more responsibility on his shoulders, this match could serve as a breakout moment for the young Spaniard.
Turning to Villarreal, the visitors arrive in the Spanish capital with their own injury concerns, which threaten to derail their tactical plans. Logan Costa, Willy Kambwala, and Pau Cabanes are all ruled out, leaving head coach Marcelino with limited options in defense. Costa’s absence is particularly significant, as the center-back has been one of Villarreal’s most consistent performers, combining composure on the ball with intelligent positioning. Without him, Villarreal may be forced to rely on a makeshift backline, potentially featuring inexperienced players or those playing out of position. Kambwala’s injury further exacerbates the issue, removing another athletic option from the defensive rotation. Cabanes, though less central to the starting XI, offered depth and versatility, and his absence narrows the tactical flexibility available to Marcelino. These defensive setbacks could prompt Villarreal to adopt a more conservative approach, perhaps sitting deeper and relying on counter-attacks to exploit Atletico’s high defensive line.
Gerard Moreno, Villarreal’s talismanic forward, is also a major doubt for the match, having missed training sessions due to muscle discomfort. Moreno’s potential absence would be a significant blow to Villarreal’s attacking potency, as the Spanish international remains one of the most intelligent and clinical forwards in La Liga. His movement between the lines, ability to link play, and knack for scoring in big moments have made him indispensable to Villarreal’s system. Without him, Marcelino may need to reshuffle his attacking setup, possibly deploying a false nine or relying on more direct play. The uncertainty surrounding Moreno’s fitness adds another layer of complexity to Villarreal’s preparations, as his presence—or lack thereof—could dramatically alter the team’s tactical approach. If he is deemed fit enough to feature, even from the bench, his impact could be decisive in a tightly contested match.
Ayoze Pérez, who enjoyed a stellar 2024–25 campaign with 22 goals across all competitions, remains sidelined with an adductor injury that has kept him out since the start of the season. At 32, Pérez is entering the twilight of his career, but his experience, technical quality, and goal-scoring instincts continue to make him a valuable asset. His absence has left a void in Villarreal’s attack, particularly in terms of off-the-ball movement and finishing. The team has struggled to replicate his output, and without a reliable goal threat, Villarreal’s attacking transitions have often fizzled out in the final third. Pérez’s injury has also forced Marcelino to experiment with different combinations up front, none of which have fully clicked thus far. The hope remains that Pérez can return to full fitness in the coming weeks, but for now, Villarreal must find alternative solutions to their goal-scoring woes.
One such solution could come in the form of Georges Mikautadze, the Georgian international who arrived from Lyon in the closing stages of the summer transfer window. Mikautadze, known for his explosive pace, technical flair, and eye for goal, is in line to make his debut for Villarreal in this fixture. The 24-year-old forward enjoyed a breakout season in Ligue 1, and his arrival has generated considerable excitement among Villarreal supporters. If handed a starting role, Mikautadze could inject much-needed dynamism into Villarreal’s attack, offering a direct threat in behind Atletico’s defense. His ability to operate across the front line, coupled with his dribbling skills and composure in front of goal, make him a potentially game-changing addition. Marcelino may opt to pair him with a more physical forward or deploy him as a lone striker in a counter-attacking setup, depending on Moreno’s availability. Either way, Mikautadze’s debut will be closely watched, and his performance could set the tone for Villarreal’s attacking evolution this season.
Tactically, the match promises to be a fascinating battle between two sides with contrasting philosophies. Atletico, under Simeone, continue to blend defensive solidity with aggressive pressing and vertical transitions. The absence of key players may force a slight tweak in their approach, perhaps leaning more on structured buildup and midfield control. Gallagher’s inclusion could signal a more combative midfield, designed to stifle Villarreal’s possession game and win second balls. Alvarez and Sørloth will likely press high, aiming to disrupt Villarreal’s attempts to play out from the back, while Barrios and Llorente could provide width and overloads in wide areas. Defensively, Atletico will need to be wary of Mikautadze’s pace and Villarreal’s ability to exploit spaces in transition, especially if Moreno features at any point.
Villarreal, on the other hand, may adopt a more cautious approach, given their injury list and the challenge of playing away at the Metropolitano. Marcelino could opt for a compact 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1, with an emphasis on defensive organization and quick counters. The midfield battle will be crucial, as Villarreal’s ability to retain possession and progress the ball through Dani Parejo and Étienne Capoue could determine their attacking rhythm. If Mikautadze starts, expect Villarreal to look for diagonal balls and quick combinations to release him into space. The full-backs, likely to be more reserved, will need to balance defensive duties with occasional overlapping runs to stretch Atletico’s shape. Set pieces could also play a role, especially given Atletico’s aerial strength and Villarreal’s vulnerability in defending crosses.
Beyond the tactical intricacies, the match carries emotional weight for both sides. Atletico, still chasing consistency in their league campaign, view this fixture as an opportunity to assert their dominance at home and build momentum. The fans will expect a spirited performance, especially from fringe players like Gallagher and Barrios, who have a chance to stake their claim in the starting XI. For Villarreal, the match represents a test of resilience and adaptability. With key players missing, the onus falls on new signings and squad players to step up and deliver. Mikautadze’s debut adds a layer of intrigue, and if he can make an immediate impact, it could galvanize the team and supporters alike.
In terms of recent form, Atletico have shown flashes of brilliance but remain inconsistent, particularly in converting chances and maintaining defensive concentration. Their home record, however, remains strong, and Simeone will be banking on the fortress-like atmosphere of the Metropolitano to inspire his side. Villarreal, meanwhile, have endured a mixed start to the season, with injuries and tactical adjustments affecting their rhythm. A positive result in Madrid could serve as a turning point, boosting morale and confidence ahead of a challenging run of fixtures.
Ultimately, Saturday’s clash is more than just a meeting of two top-flight sides—it’s a test of depth, character, and tactical ingenuity.
