⚽ Match Preview: Athletic Bilbao vs. Espanyol
Monday night football in La Liga features a clash of conflicting trajectories. While San Mamés is traditionally a fortress, Athletic Bilbao are currently stumbling through a rough patch of inconsistency and injury woes. Conversely, Espanyol arrive in the Basque Country flying high, boasting arguably their best form of the season.
The “Double Chance Away” (X2) is the value play here. This bet covers you if Espanyol wins OR if the match ends in a Draw.
Team News & Absences
The defining story of this match is the contrast in squad availability. Bilbao is weathering a “perfect storm” of defensive absences, while Espanyol welcomes back a key creative piece.
Athletic Bilbao: A Decimated Defense
Ernesto Valverde faces a severe headache regarding his team selection, particularly in the defensive third. The “Lions” are missing virtually their entire first-choice defensive core.
Defensive Crisis: The most significant blow is the suspension of key center-back Dani Vivian. To make matters worse, veteran left-back Yuri Berchiche and star defender Aymeric Laporte are both sidelined with injuries. With Yeray Álvarez also unavailable (long-term suspension), Bilbao will likely be forced to field a makeshift backline.
Midfield Concerns: In the engine room, Beñat Prados remains out injured, robbing the team of energy and ball recovery.
Doubtful: Creative midfielder Robert Navarro is in the squad but carries a knock and is listed as doubtful.
Impact: Expect players like Unai Egiluz or Lekue to be drafted into uncomfortable positions. The lack of chemistry in defense is a massive vulnerability against Espanyol’s counter-attacks.
Espanyol: Stability & Returns
In contrast, Espanyol arrives with a relatively stable squad and a significant boost in attack.
Key Return: The biggest news is the return of Tyrhys Dolan. The dynamic attacking midfielder has served his suspension and is expected to slot straight back into the starting XI, adding pace and unpredictability to the forward line.
Notable Absences: They are not completely without issues; captain and top forward Javi Puado remains out (muscle injury), and midfielder Charles Pickel has departed for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Squad Depth: Despite Puado’s absence, Espanyol has found a way to win, relying on a solid defensive structure (three consecutive clean sheets) and the finishing of Pere Milla and Roberto Fernandez.
The Verdict
Athletic Bilbao are the bookmakers’ favorites based on reputation and home advantage, but the stats and team news tell a different story. Espanyol are confident, organized, and facing a depleted host. They have enough quality to leave San Mamés with at least a point.
Recommended Tip: Double Chance: Espanyol or Draw (X2)