Frank Christian
Barcelona is set to play their first La Liga home game of the 2024/25 season against Athletic Club on Saturday, August 24.
The team kicked off their season with a 2-1 victory over Valencia with Robert Lewandowski scoring both goals, giving new coach Hansi Flick a winning debut in Spain’s top league.
Athletic Club faced a 1-1 draw with Getafe in their first match and are likely to have Nico Williams, Spain’s Euro 2024 star, starting the game. Williams has been linked with a move to Barcelona but remains committed to Athletic Club for now, eager to lead his team to victory at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.
Despite a strong start on the pitch, Barcelona is facing transfer distractions as they aim to include new signing Dani Olmo in the lineup. Olmo’s availability for the upcoming match hinges on resolving potential player departures by the end of the week.
Let’s take a look at the latest expected lineups and team news below.
Barcelona vs. Athletic Club Confirmed Lineups, Predicted Starting 11, Team News
Dani Olmo is eager to debut for Barcelona after missing the Valencia win due to registration issues. His participation in the upcoming game may rely on the status of Ilkay Gundogan, who is close to rejoining Manchester City.
Pedri is likely to return to the starting lineup alongside 20-year-old Marc Casado in midfield. Should Olmo start, Raphinha is expected to shift to the left wing, with Ferran Torres moving to the bench.
Barcelona Predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Ter Stegen (GK) – Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde – Casado, Pedri – Lamine Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha – Lewandowski.
Injured: Gavi, Ronaldo Araujo, Frenkie de Jong, Ansu Fati
Suspended: None
Nico Williams is expected to start after appearing as a substitute in Athletic Club’s first game. The talented winger will look to shine against a team interested in recruiting him.
Spain’s Dani Vivian might return in defense following a break post-Euro 2024 success.
New signing Alvaro Djalo is fit to debut after recovering from an injury.
Athletic Club Predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Padilla (GK) – Gorosabel, Paredes, Vivian, Berchiche – Prados, Vesga – I. Williams, Sancet, N. Williams – Guruzeta.
Injured: Unai Simon, Julen Agirrezabala, Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta, Oscar de Marcos
Suspended: None
Barcelona vs. Athletic Club Live Stream and TV Channel
Viewers can catch the La Liga match through various broadcasters across key regions:
| Region | TV | Streaming |
| USA | ESPN Deportes | ESPN+, Fubo |
| Canada | — | TSN+ |
| UK | Premier Sports 1, La Liga TV | Premier Sports Player |
| Australia | beIN Sports 2 | beIN Sports Connect |
| India | — | GXR World |
USA: Watch the match live on ESPN+ or ESPN Deportes for Spanish commentary. Fubo subscribers can also tune in.
Canada: TSN+ will provide the live stream for viewers in Canada.
Australia: Tune in to beIN Sports 2 on TV or stream via beIN Sports Connect.
UK: Watch on TV through Premier Sports 1 and La Liga TV, with streaming options available on Premier Sports Player.
India: Although no Indian TV channel airs La Liga matches, fans can stream the game on GXR World.
