Atletico Madrid are on the hunt for their first win of the season after earning an away point last week, whilst Athletic Bilbao are in uncertainty.
Last season’s Europa league finalists are enduring contrasting fortunes since that meeting. The champions Atletico are looking to build upon last season’s success and have secured the services of highly rated striker Radamel Falcao for another season.
In contrast, Los Leones are undoubtedly suffering from the over publicised transfer sagas of stars Javi Martinez and Fernando Llorente. The uncertainty is undermining their on-field displays, as was evident in last week’s 3-5 home defeat to Real Betis. However, a 6-0 win in Europe may be a stepping stone.
Keep an eye on: Falcao (Atletico Madrid) In any other League without the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, Falcao would probably find himself as a real contender to finish as top-scorer. 24 strikes in 34 games is still an impressive return and the Colombian will be hungry for his first of this season.
Kick-off: Monday August 27, 9pm (UK time)
Form Guide: Atletico Madrid ( – – – -D) Athletic Bilbao ( – – – -L)
Last season: Atletico Madrid 2-1 Athletic Bilbao
Stat fact: Including the Europa League final, Falcao has scored four goals in the last two games against Bilbao.
Atletico (probable): Courtois; Miranda, Godin, Diaz, Rodriguez, Silvio; Gabi, Tiago, Arda Turan, Adrian; Falcao
Bilbao (probable): Iraizoz; Iraola, San Jose, Gurpegi, Inigo Perez; Iturraspe, De Marcos, Ander Herrera; Susaeta, Toquero, Ismael Lopez
