Diego Simeone has only picked up two points in three matches. This year, we're watching what may be the worst Atletico Madrid of recent years. Judging by their results in three matches, this match is risky. They drew with Elche and Alaves and lost to Espanyol. Villarreal is a stronger team on paper than these two. Therefore, this match will be very difficult, but I'm sure the manager, aware of this, will have prepared his players thoroughly.
It seems like this season, Atletico Madrid will struggle to break into the top four in the league, let alone challenge for the title like Real Madrid and Barcelona. The squad depth that Atletico has is actually quite good, and they should have been able to start the season better. Three games without a win is a bad sign, Diego Simeone must quickly find a solution so that his team can secure a victory in the next match.
Atletico will be playing as the host in the match against Villarreal, which I think will give them a slight advantage. The international break will provide more flexibility to prepare the team better, and Diego Simeone should be able to take full advantage of that momentum. Statistically, Villarreal has started the season better, but in any case, Atletico strength cannot be underestimated.