Player ratings: Atlético Madrid held to a draw by Villarreal

Atlético Madrid could not find a way past Villarreal and had to settle for a share of the points in a fixture that turned into far more than a routine LaLiga clash. The referee's decisions, including two penalties and a red card against the visitors, heavily influenced the outcome, while Julián Álvarez's reappearance in the starting XI following his recent transfer saga added an extra layer of tension and attention around the Rojiblancos.

• Atlético failed to secure the win despite several key saves from Oblak.
• Le Normand was sent off after conceding a penalty that could have been avoided.
• Julián Álvarez was booed by supporters and only played 25 minutes.
• Giuliano Simeone scored a stunning goal to salvage a point late on.
• Baena provided the decisive assist as Atlético lost control of the game as it progressed.

Oblak shines individually but cannot hold off Villarreal alone

The Slovenian goalkeeper once again proved why he remains such a reliable presence between the posts, pulling off several outstanding stops that kept the scoreline respectable. Still, facing thirteen shots and two penalties in a single match is too much for even a keeper of his calibre to overcome on his own, and his individual brilliance was not enough to secure the win.

Pubill and Le Normand: contrasting afternoons at the back

At right-back, Pubill delivered one of those performances that stick in the memory, solid in defensive duels, crucial with a goal-saving block, and dangerous going forward, where he consistently troubled the home side. Le Normand endured a far tougher night, struggling against the pace of the Villarreal forwards and ultimately committing an avoidable penalty that led to his sending off, leaving Atlético a man down at a critical stage.

Hancko and Grimaldo hold their ground amid heavy pressure

Hancko handled his defensive duties competently in a match where the team conceded a worrying number of chances. Grimaldo showed plenty of enthusiasm going forward but was less convincing defensively, losing several individual battles down his flank, particularly against Nicolas Pépé.

Giuliano Simeone and Koke: the emotional engine of the team

Giuliano once again displayed the relentless energy that has made him a fan favourite, and his goal perfectly captured that spirit, arriving right when Atlético needed it most to salvage a point. Koke, freed from some defensive responsibility thanks to Hjulmand's presence alongside him, was able to focus more on building play, though the team gradually lost its early grip on the match as the minutes ticked by.

Hjulmand still adapting to Spanish football's refereeing standards

The Danish midfielder is still getting used to how referees operate in LaLiga, something that became evident when he reacted poorly to a loss of possession near his own box and gave away a penalty that a player of his experience should avoid. That said, he showed encouraging qualities in possession, with line-breaking passes and a level of composure that suggests he will only improve.

Attacking options struggle for end product as Barrios sparks the team

Mendoza flashed moments of quality without turning them into anything concrete before being replaced. Kang-In Lee came on full of energy and intent, though he was sometimes too eager to shoot, understandable given how well that same approach worked against Málaga recently. Lookman, deployed more centrally as a striker, lost some of his best attributes, namely his directness and pace in behind the defence. Julián Álvarez, jeered by sections of the crowd, only saw 25 minutes of action and had just one real chance; if he stays at the club, greater involvement will be expected of him, though it is understandable he looked overwhelmed given everything surrounding his situation. Baena was not enjoying his best game, but he produced the assist that earned Atlético a point, a reminder of the talent he possesses. Barrios, by contrast, immediately became the team's driving force upon entering the pitch, injecting energy and tempo. Llorente added fresh legs late on, while Giménez took an early risk with a challenge that could easily have seen him dismissed.