It's Musbizu's Beat: Match Preview: Athletic Bilbao Vs Barcelona

Kick Off 9:00pm

Athletic Bilbao

Ernesto Valverde has injury concerns over Carlos Gurpegi and Enric Saborit, meaning Aymer Laporte and Mikel Balenziaga could start in their place. However, Gurpegi did resume full training with the squad late this week so he may end up starting.
Aritz Aduriz is still not fully fit and in addition, he still has one match of this two-match ban to serve. However, with the club appealing the decision, he is still hopeful of being cleared to play.

Barcelona

Tata Martino now has two of his key players missing in action for two months; Victor Valdes and Lionel Messi.
In addition, the Argentine coach is still without Adriano, Dani Alves and Jordi Alba.
To make matters worse, following their trip to Amsterdam midweek, Xavi has not since trained with the full squad and he could be another absentee come Sunday.

Barcelona have won 18 of their last 19 matches in La Liga.
Barcelona are undefeated in their last 20 matches against Athletic Bilbao in all competitions.
Barcelona have been winning at both half time and full time in 7 of their last 8 away matches in La Liga.
Barcelona have scored at least 2 goals in their last 6 matches against Athletic Bilbao in all competitions.
Athletic Bilbao have seen over 2.5 goals in 5 of their last 6 matches against Barcelona in all competitions.
Athletic Bilbao have scored at least 2 goals in 6 of their last 7 home matches in La Liga.
Athletic Bilbao are undefeated in their last 7 home matches in La Liga.
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Athletic Bilbao are back on the up following a couple of wins that have lifted them to fifth place in La Liga. Ernesto Valverde's side is starting to come together and results mirror this.
Valverde will be hoping that Aritz Aduriz is cleared to play for this important game against Barcelona and he will also be sweating on the fitness of Carlos Gurpegi. The two players' possible returns would be a major boost for the Basque outfit.
Barcelona come into this game with numerous doubts. Having suffered their first loss of the season in all competitions to Ajax on Wednesday night, it is a real test for Tata Martino to get his side back on track and performing at the level they can.
The absences of Victor Valdes and Lionel Messi will affect this team, but with talent at his disposal Barcelona are still favourites to pick up all three points here. However, it will not be easy and a marked improvement from the midweek clash is required.
Athletic, like Ajax, may look to exploit Barca's makeshift backline that sees Carles Puyol at right back. His lack of speed and mobility means Barca will be less of a threat going forward.

Prediction:

Athletic Bilbao

Barcelona