Atlético de Madrid are set to visit Valencia this Saturday in La Liga. The match comes before the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Arsenal.
Atlético are currently fourth with 60 points. A win against Valencia would almost guarantee their place in the 2026/27 Champions League. It would also give them a confidence boost before facing Arsenal.
Valencia are currently 12th with 39 points. They are looking for a win in front of their fans to help ensure they remain in the Primera division.
Valencia’s Home Advantage
Valencia have a great opportunity to win at home. They don’t need to dominate to cause problems. They could find spaces to hurt Atlético, especially if they score first, against a team that has been inconsistent away from home.
Atlético’s Divided Focus
Atlético de Madrid’s focus may be divided. They also have some availability issues that could affect their intensity. They have struggled to maintain consistency away from home in recent weeks, which impacts expectations. They have the resources to compete, so it would not be surprising if they also find the net. The match is expected to be open towards the end, where details and finishing will be key.
Team News and Possible Lineups
Eray Cümart could return after training normally during the week. His progress has been positive and he may get some minutes. This would give more options to a squad that has had to adjust in recent matches.
Valencia still have a long list of absentees. Julen Agirrezabala and Mouctar Diakhaby are out for the rest of the season. José Copete, Dimitri Foulquier and Thierry Correia will also miss the match.
Possible Valencia lineup (4-4-2): Dimitrievski; Saravia, Tárrega, Pepelu, Gayà; Almeida, Guerra, Rodríguez, Ramazani; Sadiq, Beltrán.
Pablo Barrios reappeared against Athletic last Sunday, but suffered a recurrence of his muscle injury and may miss the rest of the season. There is also uncertainty about Julián Álvarez, who was replaced against Arsenal due to a knock on his ankle and will be assessed. Giuliano Simeone has a minor knock, but should be fit to play.
- Atlético de Madrid drew 1-1 with Arsenal on 29/04/26
- Atlético de Madrid lost 3-2 to Elche on 22/04/26
- Atlético lost on penalties to Real Sociedad on 18/04/26 after a 2-2 draw
- Atlético lost 1-2 to Barcelona on 14/04/26
The match will be broadcast on ESPN Deportes, ESPN Select, fuboTV, and the ESPN App. In Spain, it will be shown on Movistar+, LaLiga TV Bar HD, and M+ LALIGA TV.