After a mid week off yet again, we finally return to action in one of the biggest tests of the season so far. It feels like I’ve said that a lot this season, but tonight really is. And its at the beginning of a really important and crucial month of football for us before the April break. Tonight, at 9pm local time, its one of the most historic fixtures in the calendar. Live from San Mames, its Athletic Club against Barca. It really is going to be a difficult game against a team that not only has had an impressive season in the league. But they’ve also just qualified for the Copa Del Rey final this season too. Not only that, but San Mamés is one of the most intimidating atmospheres in Spanish football. No matter what form either team are in, away games in the Basque Country are never easy. You’re always made to work for it. And that’s exactly what we need to do tonight.
A Quick Look at our oppponents:
Coming into the game, on the side of Athletic Club, they have quite a few absentees. Mainly including Nico Williams due to suspension. As well as Yuri who is a doubt through injury too. However, they’re not a team that relies purely one player. And as we’ve seen over the years, only half of the Williams brothers are enough to cause us problems. So its going to be a strong team regardless. Like I’ve said before, they’ve had a really impressive season so far. They’re on a long unbeaten run at home this season. Solid defensively and have threat in attacking areas too. They’re comfortably in the top 6, competing with Atleti for the 4th spot.
It’s not going to be an easy game, but what we need to do is focus on ourselves. And focus on building on from what we saw at home last weekend. That’s the most important thing for this team to be focusing on.
Predicted lineup:
When it comes to Barca, i think the lineup is almost set in stone. Christensen will remain as our defensive midfielder. After grabbing an assist in the last game, hell be hoping to build on and get even more countable in that position. Kounde will be at right back with Cancelo on the opposite side. Araujo will be in the middle with Pedri, Gundogan and Frenkie making up the midfield. The only 2 possible questions for me would be who starts on the right hand side. And who plays alongside Araujo. For me, I would go with Pau Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal.
Pau had an incredible game against Getafe, playing a key role in the build up play. And Yamal is simply incredible. An attacking threat and fantastic out of possession too. He’s also had experience at San Mamés and has proven he can handle these types of atmospheres. Although, starting Raphinha in stead wouldn’t be an awful idea. He did have a good game against Getafe, and no matter what, he guarantees you things in attack. He’s an honest player and a hard worker. So for me, I don’t really mind who starts. But if i had to choose, I’d go for Lamine.
My starting 11:
Ter Stegen
Kounde- Araujo- Cubarsi- Canceló
Gundogan- Christensen- Frenkie
Yamal- Lewandowski- Pedri
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