"Unbeaten in their previous five consecutive top-flight appearances, Bilbao will be bracing themselves for a stern examination when they return to San Mames on Saturday night. However, hit with a 5-0 drumming when they met Barca for a Super Cup showdown in the Middle East on January 7th, they hold a nightmare record against the reigning Spanish champions."
"In what is a major blow for Bilbao, attacking talisman and long-term Barcelona target Nico Williams is still dealing with a groin issue. Likewise, still recovering from respective knee injuries, Valverde's side will also be without both Benat Prados Diaz and academy graduate Unai Egiluz."
"In fact, Valverde has lost each of his previous five meetings against his former employers by an aggregate score of 16-1."
Barcelona travels to San Mames to face Athletic Bilbao in a La Liga fixture on Saturday night. Bilbao recently suffered a Copa del Rey elimination against Real Sociedad but has shown strong form with five consecutive unbeaten La Liga matches. However, the hosts face significant challenges, including injuries to key players Nico Williams, Benat Prados Diaz, and Unai Egiluz. Bilbao holds a poor record against Barcelona, having lost their last five meetings by an aggregate score of 16-1, including a 5-0 Super Cup defeat in January. Barcelona sits in a strong position to defend their Spanish title after Real Madrid's recent loss to Getafe.
Read at Soccer News
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