Atlético Madrid go to Villarreal on Sunday night with third place in the La Liga standings within reach, needing only a point on the final matchday to move above their hosts. Both clubs arrive level on 21 wins, six draws, 10 losses and 69 points, so the result at La Cerámica could reshape the top end of the table in 90 minutes.
If the teams finish level on points, the tie will be settled by head-to-head goal difference from their two league meetings, and Atlético hold the edge after winning 2-0 in September. That gives Diego Simeone's side a clear route to third, while Villarreal need to win to finish ahead.
The match also carries a farewell note for Villarreal manager Marcelino, who will take his place in the dugout for the last time in his current spell after three years in charge. During that run, he guided Villarreal to back-to-back UEFA Champions League qualifications and has them chasing their highest league finish since the 2007/08 season.
Atlético's trip comes with recent history on their side. They have not lost away to Villarreal since a spell of three straight defeats there between 2015 and 2018, and the two clubs also met on the final day in 2022/23, when they drew 2-2. Atlético have not ended a matchday in third place in La Liga since mid-March, so Sunday offers a late chance to restore that position before the season closes.
There is still a wrinkle for Simeone to manage. Robin Le Normand is suspended after picking up his fifth yellow card, while Antoine Griezmann is expected to start what would be his last-ever game for Atlético Madrid. Obed Vargas has also been earning the coach's trust in midfield, adding another selection decision to a night that already carries title-table consequences for both clubs and a farewell for one of them.
For Atlético, a draw would be enough to finish the campaign where they want, but Villarreal have their own incentive to turn a tense finish into a statement. The standings are level, the margin is thin and the season now comes down to one final, direct test.
