Atletico Madrid's season ended in disappointment on Sunday, suffering a heavy 5-1 defeat against Villarreal. This result left Los Colchoneros in 4th place, below their initial expectations for the campaign.

After a promising start that included reaching the Champions League semi-finals and the Copa del Rey final, the team’s performance fell short. Head coach Diego Simeone shared his thoughts on the loss at La Ceramica and highlighted areas for improvement ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Simeone remarked:

We were very excited about finishing third. We couldn’t show what we wanted. Villarreal played only in La Liga, which is easier. We compete until the semi-final of the Champions League and the final of the Copa del Rey. We’ve conceded too many goals this season, and that doesn’t allow you to compete. It’s not easy to compete until the Champions League semi-finals, reach the Copa del Rey final and finish third. We have to prepare better.

On the topic of Julian Alvarez, who has reportedly declined a new contract, Simeone commented:

It’s not a question for me, it’s a question for Julián. He’s old enough to know what he’s going to do, and I’m sure he’ll have his decision made.

As Atleti reflects on a tumultuous season, the focus shifts to rebuilding and strategic preparations for the upcoming year.