Athletic Bilbao vs Sevilla – News and Probable Lineups

Athletic Bilbao is set to kick off its 2026-27 La Liga journey when they face Sevilla at San Mames on Saturday afternoon.

The Lions did not participate in the opening round, but Sevilla began their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano, earning an early three points.

Match overview

The fixture for Athletic against Barcelona in the first week was postponed due to several Barcelona players being engaged in the latter stages of the 2026 World Cup, and this match is now scheduled to take place at Camp Nou on August 27.

The Lions will play their second-week match against Sevilla this Saturday, and there will be expectations for the Basque club to perform better in La Liga this season after finishing in 12th place last term, 2025-26.

Currently, Athletic is led by head coach Edin Terzic, and they have had a busy pre-season with eight matches resulting in five victories.

Although no new players have been signed this summer, notable departures include Julen Agirrezabala, Unai Gomez, and Mikel Vesga.

Historically, Athletic has faced Sevilla 181 times, with 73 wins and 72 losses, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter this weekend.

In their last encounter in January 2026, Sevilla came out on top with a 2-1 victory over Athletic, although the Basque team has won four of the last six matchups between these rivals.

The visitors will arrive for this fixture following a 2-1 triumph against Rayo Vallecano, where Jon Guridi and Peque both converted penalties to clinch a thrilling late win for Luis Garcia Plaza’s squad.

Sevilla finished 13th in Spain’s top division last season, indicating there is significant room for progress this year.

This summer, Sevilla has made six new signings, with Robbie Ure being the standout acquisition in terms of transfer fee.

There have also been several significant exits, including Akor Adams and Juanlu Sanchez, leading to a revamped squad for the current season.

Team News

Athletic will be missing Unai Egiluz due to a knee injury, while Dani Vivian’s availability is uncertain owing to a hamstring concern.

Nico Williams played a key role in helping Spain secure victory in the 2026 World Cup, but his limited match fitness in pre-season may result in him starting on the bench this weekend.

Inaki Williams is anticipated to be included in the starting XI, and there should also be room for Oihan Sancet and Robert Navarro in the attacking lineup.

On Sevilla’s side, Alfon Gonzalez is doubtful due to a thigh issue, and Kike Salas will be unavailable as he is serving a suspension after being sent off against Rayo Vallecano last time out.

Summer signing Ure made his debut as a substitute against Rayo Vallecano; the 22-year-old could now see action from the outset this Saturday.

Castrin is expected to take advantage of Salas’s absence.

Athletic Bilbao probable starting XI

Simon; Areso, Paredes, Alvarez, Berchiche; Ruiz de Galarreta, Palace; I Williams, Sancet, Navarro; the cross

Sevilla probable starting XI

Vlachodimos; Iglesias, Sangante, Castrín, Suazo; Guridi, Agoume; Sierra, Fernandez, Oso; ure

Since October 2022, there has been only one draw in their confrontations, yet we anticipate a closely contested match this weekend that could end level.