It's always a tad disappointing when a two top clubs meet this early in the season but I don't anticipate that taking anything away from the spectacle whatsoever.
A fascinating tactical battle is assured as two constrasting styles clash in a game both teams will want to win. I'm looking forward to this one and can't wait to see the The Wanda Metropolitano lit up under the lights this Sunday evening.
Girona haven't looked back since gaining promotion from La Liga 2 playoffs in 2021-22, finishing 10th in their first season before blazing a trail at the top of La Liga last year, ultimately settling for 3rd place, five points ahead of league giants and tonight's opponents Atletico Madrid.
Atleti need no introduction, having been Spain's 3rd team for a good while now. Personified by their manager, they are always robust with scatterings of Spanish flair which can be devastating on the break, but I'm sure Simeone will be demanding a marker is put down against a team on the up.
How the bookies view it: Class to prevail as home team have big edge
Atleti were extremely difficult to beat at home last season, but they are tough to beat in general too. They won 16 of their 19 games, losing just twice, both of those coming late in the season to Barcelona and Osasuna after their Champions League exit.
They comfortably beat Girona at home last season 3-1 and the odds on them to do the business again are 11/20. The draw isn't a bad price at 16/5, but if you believe Girona have enough to threaten you can get 19/4.
Head to head: Stats show a mixed bag of results
In the 8 games these teams have played, there's been one draw, four wins for Atleti and 3 wins for Girona. With Atletico at home, the obvious is they get the job done, but the stats do show it's not done and dusted.
Players to watch: Alvarez out to prove he's worth every penny
All eyes will be on Julien Alvarez who is in contention to make his debut having come off the bench last time after his move from the Premier League. Moving for a hefty fee, he will be wanting to get off to a quick start and win over fans after having struggled for enough playing time at Manchester City. Fellow newcomer Conor Gallagher could make the bench and will be eager to show his energy should he be needed.
Girona too have their own English league import who may be in contention, the exciting Yaser Asprilla, who cost them over £20m in the summer.
Predicted line-ups
Only Marcos Paulo is likely to miss out through injury for Atletico, but Simeone may make changes as Gimenez and De Paul are likely to start this time after getting minutes off the bench last time. Club legend Griezmann will of course be in the thick of things.
Another player with EPL experience at Girona, Oriel Romeu, could feature having resigned on loan from Barca, whilst the front three should remain the same as in the Betis game, with Jastin Garcia, Ricard Arteto, Valery, and Viktor Tsyhankov out with injuries.
Atletico Madrid: Oblak, Le Normand, Gimenez, Azpilicueta, Llorente, De Paul, Koke, Lino, Griezmann, Sorloth, Alvarez
Girona: Gazzaniga, Gutierrez, D. Lopez, Blind, A. Martinez, Herrera, Romeu, Martin, Gil, Ruiz, Portu
Anything else catch the eye?
This intriguing encounter shouldn't hold too many surprises, Atleti will set up with a solid base and look to punish Girona if they overextend with the quality they have up the field.
Girona will rely on their fast-paced breakaway football to inflict damage, but may be frustrated with Atleti likely to try and dictate the tempo and keep hold of the ball for long periods. If Girona can remain compact and keep their composure, they may get the chance they are looking for on the break.
Girona were the 3rd most successful away team last campaign, scoring more goals than every other team besides Real and Barca. Atletico conceding two on the road in their last game will give Girona hope the stubborn Atleti defence can be got at.
This La Liga match between Atletico Madrid and Girona will be played on Aug 25, 2024 and kick off at 20:30. Check below for our tipsters best Atletico Madrid vs Girona prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
