Frank Christian
Barcelona is set to face Athletic Bilbao on a Saturday night to kick off their 2024–25 La Liga season, aiming for their second victory.
In their season opener against Valencia, Hansi Flick’s team rallied from behind to secure a 2-1 win, with Robert Lewandowski scoring both goals for Barca. Following this, Barcelona will have three matches in August against Athletic, Rayo Vallecano, and Real Valladolid before clashing with Girona after the September international break.
On the other hand, Valverde’s team started their La Liga season with a 1-1 draw against Getafe under the current head coach.
The Sporting News provides a preview of the essential details for this upcoming game, covering how to watch the match, kick-off times, and the latest lineup news.
Barcelona vs. Athletic Club Live Stream and TV Channel in the UK
Follow these instructions to watch the La Liga match in the UK:
- TV channel: LaLigaTV, Premier Sports 1
- Live stream: Premier Sports Player
The match will be broadcast live on LaLigaTV and Premier Sports 1 in the UK. Fans also have the option to stream the game via Premier Sports Player.
New users of Premier Sports Player can benefit from a one-month free trial.
If the game is not available for live viewing in your region or if you are traveling, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access your preferred streaming services securely and bypass geographic restrictions.
When Does Barcelona vs. Athletic Club Kick Off in the UK?
| Date | Saturday, Aug. 24 |
| Kick-off time | 6:00 p.m. BST |
| Venue | Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys |
| Location | Barcelona, Spain |
The match will take place at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys in Barcelona, Spain, commencing on Saturday, August 24 at 7:00 p.m. local time (CEST). For fans in the United Kingdom (UK), it will be 6:00 p.m. BST.
Barcelona vs. Athletic Club Lineups and Team News
Dani Olmo could make his Barcelona debut after missing the previous win against Valencia. His availability hinges on the status of Ilkay Gundogan, who is close to rejoining Manchester City.
Pedri and Marc Casado might feature in the starting lineup, with speculation about Raphinha switching positions if Olmo starts. Ferran Torres might be on the bench in this scenario.
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 slated to start for Athletic Club after appearing as a substitute in their first match against Getafe. Another player, Dani Vivian, might return to the defense following his break after the Euros triumph.
New signing Alvaro Djalo may feature after recovering from 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: Simon, Agirrezabala, Ruiz de Galarreta, Oscar de Marcos
Suspended: None
Barcelona vs. Athletic Club Prediction
Despite Lewandowski’s goals in the previous match, Barcelona struggles with finishing chances. Athletic Club, known for efficiency in front of goal, poses a challenge for Barca.
Athletic has caused problems for Barcelona in recent encounters, hinting at a close match where they could contain Barcelona’s attacking threat.
Prediction: Barcelona 1-1 Athletic Club
