Atletico Madrid seeks to resume their impressive run in La Liga, as they face Villarreal CF, who are struggling last season. Heading into this match, these two squads had a fair share of being impressive last season. Atletico finished at the fourth of the league table last season, earning 76 points in their campaign. Additionally, Atletico have been impressive recently, but there are still things that needs to improve for a better campaign. On the other hand, Villarreal finished at the eighth of the league table last season, having 53 points. Additionally, last season, Villarreal were considered a threat for strong teams, which is what they want for this season as well. The meeting between these two teams is on August 20, 2024, at 3:30 AM (GMT+8).
Atletico Madrid
Atletico Madrid are set to win their first game against Villarreal in the new campaign, aiming to launch a title challenge. The team, led by Diego Simeone, finished fourth in La Liga last season, 19 points behind Real Madrid. They are expecting a top-three finish this season, with strong transfer business. The Red and Whites brought in Julian Alvarez, Robin Le Normand, and Sorloth. Additionally, a deal for Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher is expected to be confirmed. Alvaro Morata was the team’s biggest departure, while others have been left. Atletico’s pre-season performance was impressive, with four wins and a 2-0 win over Juventus.
Atletico’s Alvarez makes his debut after a move from Manchester City, with Sorloth potentially joining him in the final third. Feliix, expected to leave before the end of the transfer window, is unlikely to be included. Antoine Griezmann, Koke, Marcos Llorente, and Rodrigo De Paul are also expected to start.
Villarreal CF
Villarreal’s 2023-24 La Liga campaign was disappointing, as they missed out on a top seven spot for the first time since 2018-19. The Yellow Submarine, who have signed six new players this summer, are looking for a European spot. However, Alexander Sorloth, the leading goalscorer from last season, has joined Atletico in a big-money deal, and Filip Jorgensen has moved to Chelsea. Villarreal’s team only played four friendlies over the summer and entered this match after a 4-0 defeat to Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion. They have only won one of their last 12 La Liga fixtures against the Red and Whites, a 2-0 victory in Madrid in August 2022.
Villarreal will be without three first-team players, Juan Foyth, Alfonso Pedraza, and Denis Suarez. Debutants include Willy Kambwala, Sergi Cardona, Perez, Diego Conde, and Pape Gueye. Gerard Moreno will play through the middle, while Alex Baena and Yeremy Pino will start.
Prediction:
Atletico Madrid
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