The tactical setup for the clash at the Ciutat de València saw Simeone making significant personnel changes to his attack and midfield. Most notably, South Korean star Lee Kang-in was named in the starting lineup, a move that signals his importance in the team’s push for the title. He was joined in the forward line by Julián Álvarez, while Julián Simeone and Marc Pujol also featured upfront. This formation suggests a wide, attacking intent, with Lee Kang-in tasked with building play and creating scoring chances on the flank.
In midfield, Simeone continued to manage his squad’s depth, leaving out injured veterans Koke and Jonny Cardoso, both of whom have been missing due to muscular issues. In their place, Pablo Barrios, Morten Hjulmand, Marcos Llorente, and David Hancko were selected. The defensive structure featured Jan Oblak in goal, with a back line that included Llorente, Hancko, Pujol, and Alejandro Grimaldo. The return of Cristian Romero to full training offers a positive note for future fixtures, though he was not confirmed in the starting XI for this match.
Atlético enters this contest with a strong defensive record, having conceded only eight goals in their first ten league matches and keeping consecutive clean sheets in their last two outings. However, the path to the top spot has not been without frustration; four of their last six league wins have come by a single-goal margin. The team will need to convert their chances more efficiently against a Levante side that presents a mixed defensive profile.
Levanté, currently sitting 14th in the table with 10 points from ten matches, has struggled for consistency under manager Luís Castro. They come into the game following a 2-1 defeat to Real Sociedad, though they had previously posted an impressive 3-1 victory over Athletic Club. The home side is a dangerous proposition in its own half, having scored 13 goals in their first four home league matches this season. Their attacking threat is led by captain Roger Brugué, who scored twice against Athletic, alongside Iván Romero and Petar Ratkov. However, Levante’s defensive frailty is stark, with 19 goals conceded in ten matches, including 10 in their four home games. This vulnerability should provide ample opportunities for Atlético’s front four, particularly Álvarez and Lee Kang-in.
The match is a critical juncture for Atlético as they enter a demanding stretch of the season, with upcoming fixtures against Bayern Munich and Barcelona. Managing player minutes and avoiding further injuries remains a priority for Simeone. For Lee Kang-in, this is a pivotal moment to demonstrate his value in the build-up play and in the final third. If Atlético can maintain their recent form and capitalize on Levante’s defensive errors, a victory would not only extend their winning streak to seven but also keep the pressure on Barcelona intense in the title race.
With the starting lineup confirmed and the tactical battle set, the visitors are well-positioned to exploit the home side’s weaknesses. The result will likely determine whether Atlético can stay within striking distance of the league leaders as the season progresses.
