Atlético Madrid is shaking off the disappointment of their Supercopa de España semi-final exit and a recent hard-fought Copa del Rey victory against Deportivo La Coruña. Now, the focus snaps firmly back to LaLiga, where a crucial fixture awaits this Sunday at the Wanda Metropolitano: a showdown against Deportivo Alavés. For Diego Simeone’s squad, this match isn't just about three points; it’s about maintaining pressure on Villarreal in the tight race for the coveted third spot in the table.
Simeone's Tactical Blueprint: Reasserting Dominance
Following the intensity of cup competitions, Simeone often relies on a system that balances defensive solidity with calculated offensive bursts. The expected formation against Alavés appears to be a flexible 4-4-2, designed to control the midfield and exploit the flanks, a setup that leverages the unique physical attributes of his key players.
The Unbreachable Wall: Defensive Selections
In goal, the Slovenian custodian, Jan Oblak, remains the undisputed and indispensable anchor. His experience in high-stakes league matches will be vital in managing any potential Alavés siege.
The defense is where Simeone’s pragmatic approach shines. Marcos Llorente, the team’s versatile powerhouse, is slated to fill in at right-back. His exceptional engine allows him to provide both defensive coverage and overlapping runs, acting almost as an auxiliary midfielder when in possession.
The center-back pairing is projected to feature the towering 1.90m newcomer, Marc Pubill. His aerial strength is considered key for neutralizing set pieces. Partnering him is the ball-playing Slovakian, Dávid Hancko. Hancko’s educated left foot is fundamental for initiating the clean build-up play that Simeone seeks when transitioning from defense to attack.
On the left flank, Matteo Ruggeri is expected to offer significant offensive thrust. His primary role will be to press high, reach the byline consistently, and deliver quality crosses into the penalty area, aiming to connect with the potent forward line.
Midfield Engine Room: Control and Creativity
The engine room is where Atlético must assert superiority. The midfield structure will likely blend grit, industry, and vision.
Pablo Barrios continues to be a linchpin, whether deployed as a deep pivot or an advanced organizer. His outstanding form suggests he is rapidly becoming indispensable, potentially even earning a spot on Spain's international roster.
The veteran presence of captain Koke is non-negotiable. He dictates the tempo; if Koke controls the rhythm, Atlético controls the match. His passing accuracy will be crucial in bypassing Alavés's expected low block.
Flanking the central pair, the wide roles demand high work rates. Giuliano Simeone, the 'Cholo’s' son, has earned his place through sheer tenacity and direct running. His defensive sacrifice is non-negotiable, providing essential electric energy down the wing.
On the opposite side, Álex Baena is slotted in for his creative spark. Operating from the left but drifting centrally, Baena's responsibility is to find pockets of space between the lines, threading the final, decisive pass.
The Attacking Duo: Power Meets Mobility
The striking partnership promises a mix of brute force and intelligent movement. Alexander Sørloth, the 'Viking,' is coming into his own, fresh off a recent goal. His physical presence and ability to hold up the ball will pin the Alavés center-backs, creating space for his partner.
Accompanying him is Julián Álvarez, the 'Araña.' Álvarez offers total mobility. He is not a static number nine; expect him to drop deep to link play, drift wide, and exploit the gaps created by Sørloth’s occupation of the central defenders, utilizing his lethal finishing ability.
Alavés's Defensive Strategy
Deportivo Alavés is anticipated to line up in a resolute 4-2-3-1 formation, prioritizing defensive organization. Goalkeeper Antonio Sivera will be tested often. The defense—likely featuring Víctor Parada, Jon Pacheco, Nahuel Tenaglia, and Jonny Otto—will focus on compactness.
In midfield, Antonio Blanco and Pablo Ibáñez will form a disciplined double pivot, tasked with screening the defense and disrupting Atlético’s central build-up. The attacking midfield trio of Carles Aleñà, Jon Guridi, and Carlos Vicente will be relied upon for quick counter-attacks, supporting the lone striker, Aitor Mañas.
The Stakes are High
For Atlético Madrid, anything less than a convincing win would be a significant setback in their pursuit of Champions League qualification stability. The pressure mounts with every dropped point in the league. Simeone demands intensity from the first whistle, and against an organized Alavés side, the early goals will be crucial to unlocking what could otherwise become a frustrating afternoon at the Metropolitano.
