Atlético de Madrid are expected to go into Sunday’s LaLiga meeting with Villarreal at the Metropolitano with a familiar look, even if there are still a few decisions to settle. The biggest call is in goal, where Jan Oblak is projected to keep the starting role despite Juan Musso’s strong late-season form.
That decision would extend Oblak’s run in the team to 538 matches, a reminder of how central he remains to Diego Simeone’s plans. Even with Musso pushing for more minutes, Atlético appear ready to lean on the long-time No. 1 again as they look to build on their opening weekend win.
What Atlético Madrid may look like against Villarreal
The projected XI also points to some movement elsewhere in the back line and wide areas. Marc Pubill played a few minutes on Wednesday and was solid, which adds another option for Simeone as he shapes the defense for a home league match that already carries early-season importance.
One of the more interesting choices is Marcos Llorente, who could be trusted at right back. That would give Atlético extra energy and flexibility on the flank, while also allowing Simeone to keep a balance between defending the space and moving the ball forward.
Robin Le Normand is also expected to be part of the starting group, helping anchor a unit that opened the league season with a 2-0 win over Málaga. Villarreal, meanwhile, drew with Racing de Santander on the first matchday, so both sides arrive with different early results but plenty still to prove.
Grimaldo's role could be more advanced
Another point to watch is Alejandro Grimaldo, who is expected to be used with more freedom going forward after a more defensive debut. The idea is simple: if Atlético can get him higher up the pitch, he can attack more and add another layer to the team’s buildup and width.
That is the kind of small tactical choice that often defines these early league matches. Atlético already have a clear structure, but Simeone still has room to adjust roles within it, especially with Villarreal coming to the Metropolitano and the season still in its early stages.
The bigger picture is straightforward. Atlético are not just trying to pick up another result on Sunday; they are also refining roles, testing combinations and deciding which players fit best in the first stretch of LaLiga. For now, Oblak remains the likely starter, Llorente may be asked to help at right back and Grimaldo could be given more license to join the attack.
