How to watch Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal in the USA

Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal will be available on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes in the USA. Fubo, ESPN+ and the ESPN App are the main options for watching LaLiga in streaming.

Can I watch Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal for free?

Yes, eligible viewers can watch Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal for free with Fubo‘s 5-day free trial. The platform lists the LaLiga Matchday 2 clash on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes and currently offers a “Try for free” option for the match.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Atletico Madrid and Villarreal meet in Matchday 2 of LaLiga with both sides looking to establish themselves near the top of the table early in the 2026-27 season. Atletico opened their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Malaga, while Villarreal drew 2-2 with Racing Santander after conceding twice. The Yellow Submarine therefore arrive in Madrid looking for their first win of the season.

For Villarreal, new manager Iñigo Perez is already demanding a more aggressive approach after the draw against Racing. The coach acknowledged that defensive mistakes, particularly late in the game, cost his team against the newly promoted side. Against an Atletico team known for its tactical discipline under Diego Simeone, Villarreal will need to be more consistent at both ends of the field.

Atletico also have significant selection questions heading into the match. Julian Alvarez, Cristian Romero and Alexander Sorloth are among the players unavailable, according to the latest team information, while the club continues to work on strengthening its attacking options before the transfer window closes.

Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal: Predicted Lineups

Atletico Madrid (4-2-3-1): Jan Oblak; Alejandro Grimaldo, David Hancko, Robin Le Normand, Marcos Llorente; Pablo Barrios, Koke; Alex Baena, Lee Kang-in, Giuliano Simeone; Ademola Lookman.

Villarreal (4-4-2): Luiz Junior; Carlos Romero, Renato Veiga, Juan Foyth, Santiago Mouriño; Alberto Moleiro, Santi Comesaña, Pape Gueye, Nicolas Pepe; Georges Mikautadze, Ayoze Perez.

What time is the Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal match?

Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal kicks off on Sunday, August 23, at 9:00 AM ET. The match is scheduled for 3:00 PM local time in Madrid. For viewers in different regions of the U.S., here are the start times:

• Eastern Time: 9:00 AM
• Central Time: 8:00 AM
• Mountain Time: 7:00 AM
• Pacific Time: 6:00 AM

How to watch Atletico Madrid vs Malaga in the USA

In the United States, ESPN Deportes will carry Atletico Madrid vs. Malaga on TV, with streaming options including Fubo, ESPN+, the ESPN App.

Can I watch Atletico Madrid vs Malaga for free?

Yes, eligible new Fubo subscribers can watch Atletico Madrid vs. Malaga for free through the 5-day free trial. The official website currently advertises a free trial, although it notes that free trials may not be available on every plan.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Atletico Madrid open their 2026-27 LaLiga campaign at home against Malaga, with both teams entering the season under very different circumstances. Diego Simeone‘s side finished fourth last season, 25 points behind champions Barcelona, and will be looking to close that gap as they attempt to return to the title race.

The summer has brought several important additions for Atletico. Alejandro Grimaldo, Kang-in Lee, Morten Hjulmand and Cristian Romero have joined the squad, giving Simeone additional quality and tactical options. However, the team has also had a complicated preseason, recording two wins and two defeats, including losses against Manchester United and Manchester City.

The biggest storyline ahead of kickoff surrounds Julian Alvarez. Simeone confirmed that Alvarez will not play against Malaga because he needs more training after returning from the 2026 World Cup. Alexander Sorloth and Romero are also unavailable for the opener.

Malaga, meanwhile, return to LaLiga for the first time since the 2017-18 season. The Andalusian club earned promotion through the 2025-26 Segunda Division playoffs after beating Almeria in the final, and Juan Francisco Funes now faces the challenge of keeping the club in the top flight.

Atletico Madrid vs Malaga: Predicted Lineups

Atletico Madrid (3-4-1-2): Jan Oblak; Marc Pubill, Robin Le Normand, David Hancko; Giuliano Simeone, Pablo Barrios, Koke, Alejandro Grimaldo; Lee Kang-in; Ademola Lookman, Aitor Ortiz.

Malaga (4-3-3): Alfonso Herrero; Carlos Puga, Angel Recio, Einar Galilea, Jose Salinas; Rafa Rodriguez, Izan Merino, Dani Lorenzo; David Larrubia, Chupe, Joaquin Munoz.

What time is the Atletico Madrid vs Malaga match?

The match kicks off on Wednesday, August 19, at 3:00 PM ET. For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

• Eastern Time: 3:00 PM
• Central Time: 2:00 PM
• Mountain Time: 1:00 PM
• Pacific Time: 12:00 PM

Following a grueling run with Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, Alvarez is still working his way back to full match fitness. That lack of conditioning is the primary reason he will sit out Atletico Madrid‘s 2026–27 LaLiga Matchday 1 fixture against Malaga.

According to head coach Diego Simeone, the star striker requires additional time to build up his physical workload before tackling the high demands of the LaLiga season. As a result, Alvarez will remain sidelined for the opener with an eye on returning for Matchday 2 while he ramps up his fitness in training.

Naturally, his absence from the squad has only amplified transfer speculation. After rumors surfaced suggesting Alvarez might be open to a new challenge away from Madrid, his exclusion sparked immediate chatter, particularly with European heavyweights like Barcelona and Arsenal reportedly keeping close tabs on his situation.

Alvarez’s career track record with Atletico Madrid

Despite the persistent transfer noise, Alvarez remains a crucial focal point in Simeone’s attack as he enters his third season with the club following his high-profile move from Manchester City in 2024.

Here is a breakdown of his production during his tenure with Atletico Madrid:

• Total appearances: 106 matches
• Total goals: 49 goals
• Assists: 12 assists

While rumor mills continue to link him with a summer move away, all indications point to Alvarez remaining at the Metropolitano for the 2026–27 LaLiga campaign. A late transfer window exit remains unlikely, though as always in global soccer, nothing can be ruled out until the window officially slams shut.

Speaking to Argentine radio station Radio La Red, Alvarez made it clear he has already held talks to orchestrate his exit to join Hansi Flick’s Barcelona. “I want to fulfill my dream. I spoke with the people at the club I needed to speak with, and the best thing for my future is a transfer.”

The rumors linking Alvarez to Barcelona are rapidly becoming a reality, creating what could be a win-win situation for both sides. Alvarez is looking for a club with a better project, and Barca meets expectations as it chases a major Champions League run. Furthermore, he would serve as the perfect replacement for Robert Lewandowski.

Alvarez optimistic about Argentina’s form

Argentina have already secured two straight wins in the 2026 World Cup without much trouble securing a spot in the round of 32, with a 38-year-old Lionel Messi proving exactly why he is the greatest of all time. Post-match, Julian Alvarez showed that he is highly satisfied with how the national team is performing.

“The truth is that we have started very well, but it is very difficult and we have to keep going down this path,” said Alvarez, who also marveled at the fabulous form of Messi, who has already netted five goals in just two matches of the tournament.

“It’s something incredible; there are no words left.” The forward highlighted Messi’s daily value to the group: “We see him every day and, after so many years, he keeps making magic. He is the best in history, and we just try to enjoy his presence.”

The rivals Argentina would prefer to avoid

Alvarez provided plenty of interesting insights, also opening up about which countries Argentina would prefer to avoid facing in the World Cup—a statement that makes perfect sense given their current form and star-studded talent. “If Spain can be avoided, all the better; we know they are a very strong opponent.”

“That said, we are prepared for any challenge. To reach the final, you have to win against everyone, so we must focus on ourselves and take it step by step. There are many strong national teams, but we aspire to fulfill that big dream.”

Through an official statement on their Instagram account, Real Madrid addressed the situation as follows: “Real Madrid C. F. announces that, following the meeting of the Board of Directors held today, it has made an offer of 150 million euros to Club Atletico de Madrid for the federative rights of the player Julian Alvarez.

“After reviewing and evaluating the offer, Club Atletico de Madrid has expressed its gratitude for the proposal, made within the framework of the good relations between both clubs, and has rejected it, referring to the player’s release clause.”

The player’s potential departure from Atletico Madrid would only be possible through his release clause. What is the value of this fee? €500 million, according to Marca.

Atletico Madrid’s sarcastic response

Real Madrid’s statement on the situation quickly prompted a response from their longtime rival. Through their official X account, Atletico Madrid reacted with a sarcastic message regarding the offer, even highlighting the fact that their city rivals were pursuing one of their players.

“1. You cut the video of the Pope where he said he was also an Atleti fan. You must have confused ethics with gratitude, but to leave no doubts: we don’t thank you for anything. We are not studying nor considering any offer for Julian. How could we [Madrid] not get along, when you make us laugh even more than Barcelona.”

The message concluded with a request directed at Los Blancos: “P.S. Taking advantage of the good relationship with your new president, let’s see if you stop ‘stealing’ players from our Academy. Thanks a lot, @realmadrid!”

The most expensive signings in Real Madrid history

Had Alvarez’s move to Real Madrid been completed, it would have comfortably surpassed the most expensive signing in the club’s history. Who currently holds that distinction? Jude Bellingham, who joined from Borussia Dortmund during the 2023–24 season for a total fee of €127 million.

Eden Hazard, who arrived from Chelsea, and Gareth Bale, signed from Tottenham, complete the podium. The Belgian joined for a fee of €120.8 million, while the Welsh forward was acquired for €101 million.

Real Madrid’s current signings

Real Madrid are executing a dramatic summer rebuild under the leadership of Florentino Perez, headlined by the blockbuster return of Jose Mourinho as manager. To reinforce the squad’s defensive spine, the club has already finalized major signings by securing right-back Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan and central defender Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer from Liverpool.

As for the attack, Mourinho might prioritize midfield reinforcements—including a creative playmaker and a defensive midfielder—and left-back depth rather than actively pursuing other positions, as he plans to build his offensive strategy around the existing elite star power of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.

Florentino Perez remains in Madrid

Florentino Perez has successfully secured his reelection as Real Madrid president, defeating challenger Enrique Riquelme by capturing 65% of the total votes in the club’s first contested election in nearly two decades. Following this decisive victory, the 79-year-old executive is set to extend his historic, trophy-laden leadership at the helm of the club until the year 2030.

Fabrizio Romano, a renowned journalist who specializes in the soccer transfer market, reported on Friday that Barcelona made the first move toward acquiring Julian Alvarez from Atleti. The Colchoneros did not take this report well and answered with joking bids for three of the Blaugranas’ biggest stars.

“HERE WE GO! We have sent a fax to @FCBarcelona_es with our transfer offer: 4 tickets for tomorrow’s Bad Bunny concert, an annual subscription to ABC, and a bag of sunflower seeds. We eagerly await the response to prepare the ‘announce’,” Atleti published on their official Spanish X account alongside a picture of Lamine Yamal, who recently won his third LaLiga title, wearing their jersey.

Pedri and Raphinha also included in Atleti’s troll

In their second tweet on the topic, Atletico Madrid shared a joke offer for Pedri: “HERE WE GO! For this second offer we had a problem, we ran out of tickets for tomorrow’s concert, so we are improving the previous proposal with 6 for Sunday’s concert.”

For their third post of the day, Atletico Madrid targeted Barcelona winger Raphinha, all of them starting with Romano’s phrase when he announces a signing: “HERE WE GO! And to complete the 3-for-1 deal, we went all out and are throwing the house out the window: the player arrives on loan for one season and in exchange we loan Tom Ford and Smith with no option to buy. An irresistible offer.”

Atletico Madrid send a clear message to Barcelona about Julian Alvarez

Following these three posts, Atletico Madrid concluded the interaction with a direct message aimed at Barcelona regarding the reported bid for Julian Alvarez and the persistent rumors surrounding his potential exit from the club:

“No, Atletico Madrid would never do something like that. However, over the last few months, we have been suffering a campaign of constant harassment against one of our players. Self-serving leaks, ‘fake news’, a continuous lack of respect, the Cule version of the media machinery inventing stories, phone calls right before head-to-head matches… But of course, it would also never cross our minds to have the vice president of the referees on our payroll or to resort to political favors to register players. RESPECT and VALUES.”

Per Ben Jacobs of GiveMeSport, the United States soccer team is in touch to see how fast Cardoso could return to the pitch, but overall sentiment is he will miss the World Cup.

Cardoso is a very good midfielder who brings stability and quality to the USMNT’s middle section. Without the Atletico Madrid midfielder, the son of Brazilian parents will leave a hole on Mauricio Pochettino’s squad.

Who could replace Cardoso on USMNT?

MLS-based talents could come in handy to replace Johnny Cardoso. For instance, names like Sebastian Berhalter from the Vancouver Whitecaps or Cristian Roldan from the Seattle Sounders could see their names called.

Berhalter was a bright spot for the USMNT during the 2025 Gold Cup and he’s been called plenty of times by Pochettino. His role could be bigger without Cardoso on the squad, though. Also, Roldan has 45 caps for the USMNT and World Cup experience. It’s time for Pochettino to solve the puzzle.

Does the USMNT has other players out of the World Cup?

Striker Patrick Agyemang is fully discarded due to an Achilles tear. Goalkeeper Jonathan Klinsmann suffered a broken neck, so he is also out of the World Cup. Left back John Tolkin has an inner knee ligament injury that has sidelined him.

A few other key pieces are battling injuries, creating uncertainty around their names but still expected to be able to play in the World Cup. Those players are forward Christian Pulisic, versatile Tim Weah, and midfielder Tanner Tessmann.

They reached the final in 2014 and again in 2016, losing both times to city rivals Real Madrid, including a penalty shootout defeat in Milan. Those matches, along with their earlier appearance in 1974, form the backbone of a narrative filled with dramatic highs and crushing lows.

Their last final came in 2016, and with three appearances overall, the club’s UCL journey stands as one of persistence—always within reach, yet still waiting for the breakthrough moment that would redefine their place in European soccer.

How many times have Atletico Madrid played in the UCL final?

Atletico Madrid have played in the UEFA Champions League final three times. Their appearances came in 1974, 2014 and 2016, spanning different eras but all ending in defeat.

The club’s first final dates back to 1974, when they faced Bayern Munich. After a dramatic draw in the initial match, they lost the replay, missing out on their first European crown. Decades later, they returned to the biggest stage twice in a three-year span.

Those modern runs, particularly in 2014 and 2016, helped redefine Atletico Madrid as a true European contender. However, both finals ended in heartbreak against city rivals Real Madrid—one in extra time and the other in a penalty shootout.

How many UCL finals have Atletico Madrid reached under Diego Simeone?

Atletico Madrid reached two UEFA Champions League finals under Diego Simeone. Those came in 2014 and 2016, during the club’s most successful modern era in European competition.

The first came in the 2013–14 season, when they were seconds away from winning the title. They led against Real Madrid in Lisbon before conceding a dramatic stoppage-time equalizer, eventually losing 4–1 in extra time.

Two years later, Simeone’s side returned to the final in Milan for a rematch against their city rivals. The match finished 1–1 after extra time, but Atletico were defeated 5–3 in a penalty shootout, marking their second heartbreaking loss under the Argentine coach.

Have Atletico Madrid ever won the Champions League?

Atletico Madrid have never won the UEFA Champions League. Despite reaching the final three times, they have fallen short on each occasion. Their closest opportunity arguably came in 2014.

They were minutes away from victory before conceding a late equalizer to Real Madrid, who went on to win in extra time. Two years later, they pushed the same opponent to penalties in Milan but were again denied.

In a move that sent shockwaves through the Emirates, the trio will start this second-leg tie from the bench. Instead, Arteta is leaning on Leandro Trossard, Bukayo Saka, and teenage sensation Lewis-Skelly to carry the load from the opening whistle.

Arsenal will also be without Jurrien Timber, who remains sidelined and has yet to feature in the Champions League knockout stages. However, the Gunners are bolstered by the return of Riccardo Calafiori, who rejoins the squad after a recent injury spell.

The aggregate score remains deadlocked at 1–1 following a contentious first leg at the Riyadh Metropolitano, where both sides converted penalties. Now, Arsenal face a winner-take-all scenario and you can follow every highlight and detail of the game in our liveblog coverage, for a ticket to the Champions League Final, with either PSG or Bayern Munich waiting on the other side of the bracket.

Scenarios for Arsenal vs. Atletico Madrid

With the aggregate score deadlocked at 1-1, Arsenal and Atletico Madrid enter today’s second leg with their seasons on the line. And the remaining question is what happens if Arsenal win, tie or lose against The Spaniards?

There is no margin for error at the Emirates today. Both clubs have made this tournament their ultimate priority, particularly Diego Simeone’s side, which is riding high after losing the Copa del Rey title against Real Sociedad just weeks ago.

With the La Liga race currently a two-horse battle between Barcelona and Real Madrid, the Champions League represents Atletico’s best shot at a historic title title in Europe.

Arsenal chasing an exclusive piece of history

If the Gunners can navigate this final hurdle and secure the trophy, they would join an elite fraternity of clubs to be crowned European champions with an undefeated record. Having swept the league phase and remained clinical through the knockouts, Arteta’s squad is on the verge of one of the most dominant runs in the competition’s history.

The stage is set for a heavyweight European clash. After a tactical chess match last week at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, the “winner-take-all” stakes in London have fans expecting a classic. With a ticket to the final on the line, today’s matchup promises to be the defining moment of the season for two of the continent’s most formidable powers.

The match began as a tactical carbon copy of the first leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, with Arsenal dominating possession but struggling to convert their control into genuine scoring threats against a disciplined Spanish defense.

However, just as the match seemed destined to go into halftime scoreless, the breakthrough arrived. Leandro Trossard unleashed a powerful strike that forced a parry from Jan Oblak, and Bukayo Saka pounced on the rebound to slot home the game’s only goal.

Atletico threw everything at the Gunners in the second half in search of an equalizer, but Arsenal’s backline remained impenetrable. With their ticket to their second Champions League final in their history officially punched, the Gunners now await the winner of Wednesday’s clash between Bayern Munich and PSG at the Allianz Arena.

Timber remains sidelined with a groin injury that has kept him out for weeks. He had already missed Arsenal’s first leg against Atletico in Madrid, which finished in a 1-1 draw.

Mikel Arteta’s men are looking to make history as Arsenal could join the list of unbeaten UEFA Champions League winners. However, it won’t be easy as Atletico Madrid are known for their structure and experience in knockout competitions.

What happened to Jurrien Timber?

Jurrien Timber has been dealing with a groin injury suffered back in March. Initially considered minor, the issue has kept him out for more than a month and multiple games across competitions. He has only recently resumed light work on the pitch, but has not been able to return to full match fitness.

Timber was absent from Arsenal’s final training session before the semifinal second leg, confirming he would not be available.

When will Jurrien Timber return to play?

The Dutch defender faces a more uncertain situation. While some projections suggest a possible return later in May for Timber, there is still no confirmed date, and his recovery has been slower than expected. The club has indicated he needs to increase his training intensity before being considered for selection.