Villarreal and Atlético Madrid face off with more than just pride on the line. Third place, and the associated financial reward of almost seven million, hangs in the balance as they conclude their seasons.
Marcelino’s Farewell at Villarreal
For Villarreal, this match marks the end of an era as it is Marcelino’s last in charge. He reflected on his time with the club, noting that his two spells total seven seasons, leaving a lasting mark. The club paid tribute to Marcelino, with the manager expressing his gratitude to the president of the Board of Directors for the recognition. He admitted to a mix of emotions as he prepares to depart.
Marcelino also spoke about his team’s performance after achieving their objectives. He observed a clear difference in the team’s performance before and after their targets were met. He said, ‘Our team was clearly seen when we had done our homework. We were a team until then and a team after. It’s like saying ‘we’ve already achieved it’.’
Atlético’s Lineup and Simeone’s Perspective
Atlético Madrid will be sporting their second kit for the upcoming season. The starting eleven includes Musso, Llorente, Pubill, Lenglet, Hancko, Vargas, Koke, Giuliano, Álex Baena, Lookman and Griezmann.
Clement Lenglet’s inclusion in the starting lineup is a notable change for Atlético de Madrid. Ruggeri is the player making way for the French player. Hancko will occupy the left-back position.
Atlético’s bench includes Oblak, Esquivel, Boñar, Julio Díaz, Ruggeri, Puric, Morcillo, Rayane, Iker Luque, Sorloth, and Cubo.
Diego Simeone shared his thoughts on the match and the season. He stated, ‘It is always better to be third than fourth. Better first than second. We will go to play a match where the rhythm will be different from the middle of the League. We’ll see who makes the fewest mistakes and whoever makes the fewest mistakes will take the game.’ He also acknowledged Villarreal’s strengths, describing them as a fast, classic Marcelino team, well-organised with quick transitions.
Villarreal’s Starting Team
Villarreal’s confirmed lineup features Arnau Tenas, Mouriño, Pau Navarro, Rafa Marín, Pedraza, Pépé, Gueye, Parejo, Moleiro, Ayoze and Mikautadze. Junior, Costa, Freeman, Kambwala, Alfon, Renato Veiga, Buchanan, Oluwaseyi, Cardona, Cabanes, Maciá and Diatta will start on the bench for the home side.
Griezmann’s Last Dance?
The match marks Antoine Griezmann’s last appearance. It is the final act for ‘El Principito’ at Atlético.
The match between Villarreal and Atlético Madrid promises to be a closely contested affair, with both teams having plenty to play for. The battle for third place adds an extra layer of intensity to this end-of-season clash.