An out-of-sorts Atletico Madrid face a resurgent Villarreal on Saturday, needing not only a win but also goals.
Atleti boss Diego Simeone on being without Koke for a third game: “We’ve lost one of the best players in our team.
“He’s our best player in terms of combinations and tactics. He’s the most versatile.
“Fernando Torres? He’s working with the same enthusiasm like always, with the same responsibility and willingness to play when he’s called upon.
“He’s appeared in almost every game and participated in many matches, but the fact he’s played much more than Gaitan isn’t up for comparison. They are totally different cases.”
Villarreal boss Javi Calleja on his side’s philosophy: “We’re a big team, so we won’t sacrifice our philosophy. Our style of play remains the same.
“Enes to Levante? Nothing’s clear yet. Levante asked us about him and we’ll see what happens.”
Atletico Madrid (probable): Oblak; Juanfran, Savic, Godin, Filipe; Correa, Thomas, Gabi, Saul; Griezmann, Gameiro
Injuries/suspensions: Carrasco, Koke (I)
Villarreal (probable): Barbosa; Mario, Alvaro, Victor Ruiz, Jaume; Castillejo, Rodri, Fornals, Trigueros; Bacca, Bakambu
Injuries/suspensions: Ruben Semedo, Bruno, Asenjo, Andres (I)
Referee: Undiano Mallenco
Form guide: Atleti – 4th (W D D W W) Villarreal – 6th (W W W L D)
Previous meeting: Atleti 0-1 Villarreal
Venue: Wanda Metropolitano
Kick-off time: 17:30 BST/18:30 local time
