Athletic Bilbao will be bidding to make a winning start to their 2025–26 La Liga campaign when they welcome Sevilla to the iconic San Mamés on Sunday evening, in what promises to be a compelling clash between two sides with vastly different trajectories over the past year. For the Lions, the new season begins with a sense of optimism and anticipation, having secured a top-four finish in the previous campaign and earned a coveted spot in the Champions League. Their 2024–25 season was a testament to consistency and resilience, as Ernesto Valverde’s men amassed 70 points from 38 matches, recording 19 wins, 13 draws, and just six defeats. That tally saw them finish level on points with fifth-placed Villarreal but ahead on goal difference, and a full 10 points clear of sixth-placed Real Betis. It was a campaign that reignited belief in Bilbao’s ability to compete at the highest level, and now, with European nights returning to San Mamés, the club is bracing for a season that could define their modern era.
The return to the Champions League is particularly special for Athletic, who have not featured in the competition since the 2014–15 season. That long absence from Europe’s premier tournament has only heightened the excitement surrounding their qualification, and the club’s supporters are eager to see how their side fares against continental heavyweights. However, the club’s unique Basque-only recruitment policy continues to shape their approach to squad building. While this tradition is a source of immense pride and cultural identity, it also imposes limitations on the pool of available talent. Despite these constraints, Athletic have managed to make two notable additions during the summer transfer window. Jesus Areso has returned from Osasuna to bolster the right-back position, and Robert Navarro has arrived from Mallorca to add depth and creativity in midfield. These signings, though modest in scale, reflect the club’s commitment to reinforcing key areas without compromising their philosophy.
Arguably the most significant piece of business conducted by Athletic this summer was not a new signing but the retention of one of their brightest stars. Nico Williams, the electrifying winger who has become a fixture in the Spanish national team, was once again heavily linked with a move to Barcelona. Speculation swirled throughout the summer, with reports suggesting that the Catalan giants were preparing a substantial offer to lure him away. Yet, in a move that delighted fans and reaffirmed the club’s ambitions, Williams signed a new contract to remain at San Mamés. His decision to stay is a major boost for Valverde, who will rely heavily on the pace, flair, and goal-scoring ability of the Williams brothers—Nico and Iñaki—as the team seeks to build on last season’s success.
Despite the positive developments off the pitch, Athletic’s pre-season form has been far from encouraging. The Lions lost six of their seven friendly matches, including a humbling 3–0 defeat to Arsenal in their final warm-up game. These results have raised concerns about the team’s readiness for competitive action, and Valverde will be under pressure to ensure that the sluggish pre-season does not bleed into the La Liga campaign. The manager, known for his tactical acumen and calm demeanor, will need to rally his squad and instill the belief that they can hit the ground running. The opening fixture against Sevilla presents both a challenge and an opportunity—a chance to shake off the rust and make a statement of intent against a side that endured a torrid 2024–25 season.
Sevilla’s fall from grace last season was one of the most dramatic narratives in Spanish football. The Andalusian club, traditionally a fixture in the top half of the table and a regular participant in European competitions, finished a dismal 17th in La Liga. It was their worst final position since the 1999–2000 season, when they were relegated to the Segunda División. The margin between survival and disaster was razor-thin, with Sevilla ending the campaign just one point above 18th-placed Leganés. The club’s supporters were left stunned by the decline, and the atmosphere around the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán was one of frustration and disbelief. A team that had lifted the Europa League trophy just a few seasons prior was now fighting for its life in the top flight.
In response to the crisis, Sevilla made a bold managerial change, appointing Matías Almeyda as head coach. The 51-year-old Argentine left AEK Athens to take the reins at one of Spain’s most storied clubs, bringing with him a reputation for instilling discipline and tactical structure. Almeyda’s arrival has injected a sense of renewal into the club, and his task is clear: restore Sevilla to their rightful place among La Liga’s elite. The summer transfer window saw the club make three key additions. Alfon Gonzalez and Gabriel Suazo joined on free transfers, adding experience and versatility to the squad, while goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos arrived on loan from Newcastle United to provide competition between the posts. These signings, while not headline-grabbing, reflect a pragmatic approach to rebuilding—a focus on stability and depth rather than marquee acquisitions.
Sevilla’s pre-season performances have offered cautious optimism. Almeyda’s side played seven friendly matches and suffered just one defeat, recording two wins and four draws. While the results were not spectacular, they represented a marked improvement from the chaos of last season. The team appeared more organized, and several players showed signs of resurgence. Dodi Lukebakio, in particular, stood out with his dynamic displays and goal-scoring prowess. The Belgian forward netted 11 goals in La Liga last season, and he is expected to be a central figure in Almeyda’s plans. His ability to stretch defenses and create opportunities will be crucial as Sevilla look to rediscover their attacking rhythm.
As the two sides prepare to face off, team news and selection decisions will play a significant role in shaping the contest. Athletic are likely to hand a debut to Jesus Areso at right-back, with the 26-year-old expected to slot straight into the starting XI. The Williams brothers will lead the line in attack, offering pace and penetration on the flanks. However, the Basque outfit will be without several key players due to injury and suspension. Yeray Álvarez is unavailable due to a ban carried over from last season, while Unai Egiluz, Benat Prados, Oihan Sancet, and Unai Gomez are all sidelined with various fitness issues. These absences will test the depth of Valverde’s squad and may force tactical adjustments.
Sevilla, too, have concerns on the injury front. Six players are currently doubtful and will undergo late fitness tests to determine their availability. Loïc Badé, Chidera Ejuke, Joan Jordán, Ramón Martínez, Tanguy Nianzou, and Isaac Romero are all nursing knocks, and their potential absence could limit Almeyda’s options. Nevertheless, there is expected to be a debut for Gabriel Suazo, who will bring energy and tenacity to the midfield. The Chilean international is known for his work rate and defensive contributions, and his presence could be vital in disrupting Athletic’s rhythm. Lukebakio, fresh off a strong individual campaign, is also set to start and will be tasked with leading the line and providing a goal threat.
The tactical battle between Valverde and Almeyda will be fascinating. Valverde’s preference for structured buildup and wide play contrasts with Almeyda’s emphasis on pressing and vertical transitions. Athletic will likely seek to dominate possession and exploit the flanks, while Sevilla may adopt a more reactive approach, looking to capitalize on turnovers and counter-attacks. The midfield duel will be pivotal, with both sides aiming to control the tempo and dictate proceedings. Set pieces could also prove decisive, especially given the aerial prowess of players like Iñaki Williams and the delivery capabilities of Suazo.
Beyond the tactical nuances, this match carries emotional weight for both clubs. For Athletic, it is a celebration of progress and a chance to showcase their credentials as a top-four side. For Sevilla, it is the beginning of a redemption arc—a journey to reclaim pride and restore faith. The atmosphere at San Mamés will be electric, with the home crowd eager to witness their team’s return to competitive action. The stakes are high, and the margin for error is slim. Both teams have much to prove, and the outcome could set the tone for the season ahead.
As the sun sets over Bilbao and the floodlights illuminate the pitch, the stage will be set for a gripping encounter. Athletic Bilbao versus Sevilla is more than just an opening fixture—it is a clash of ambition, identity, and resilience. The Lions will roar with the confidence of a team on the rise, while Los Nervionenses will fight with the desperation of a side seeking redemption. In a league where every point matters and every match tells a story, Sunday’s showdown promises to be a chapter worth reading.
