Athletic Club did not get their 2024-25 season off to a great start, as they dropped points at home to a depleted Getafe last Thursday. Ernesto Valverde’s side will be aiming to register their first victory of the campaign on Saturday when they travel to the Estadi Olimpic to take on Barcelona.
As things stand, Los Leones are set to continue with rookie goalkeeper Alex Padilla between the sticks for the match. The 20-year-old impressed against Getafe, but it’s expected that he will be relegated to the bench upon the return of Julen Agirrezabala, who will be no.1 in the absence of Unai Simon – the Euro 2024 is currently recovering after wrist surgery.
As per Relevo, Agirrezabala has now returned to group training following his recovery from a back injury sustained during pre-season. All being well, he should be in contention to start against Barcelona – the same can be said for big-money signing Alvaro Djalo, who also missed the Getafe draw due to injury.
Athletic Club’s chances of pulling off an unlikely victory against Barcelona will be increased with Agirrezabala and Djalo available. For now, it remains to be seen whether they’re included in the matchday squad.
Happy for Connor G. and happy for Atletico M.
Go Atletico !