Sun May 25 18:20:00 UTC 2025: **Barcelona Set to Close Out Championship Season Against Champions League-Bound Athletic Club**

**BILBAO, Spain –** La Liga champions Barcelona travel to San Mamés this Sunday to face Athletic Club in the final match of the 2024-25 season, a fitting end to a campaign that saw the Catalan giants reclaim the league title under manager Hansi Flick. While the title is already secured, Barcelona will be looking to finish strong after a recent defeat to Villarreal ended their year-long unbeaten streak in domestic play.

Athletic Club, managed by Ernesto Valverde, have enjoyed a resurgence and confirmed their Champions League spot after going undefeated for the past three matches in La Liga. This marks their return to Europe’s elite competition for the first time since 2014-15.

Although much isn’t on the line for either team, the match promises an exciting contest between two of Spain’s top sides, providing a thrilling conclusion to the La Liga season.

**Form Guide (Most Recent First):**

* Athletic Club: W-D-L-W-W-W
* Barcelona: L-W-W-W-W-W

Athletic Club’s defense, led by the return of goalkeeper Unai Simón and anchored by Dani Vivian, has been a key to their success. Oihan Sancet leads the attack with 15 league goals, though he’s currently on a five-game scoreless streak. Winger Nico Williams, linked with a summer move, could make a return from injury to feature in what may be his final match for the club.

Barcelona’s attack has been prolific this season and will be aiming to finish their season with a goal tally worthy of recognition in the team’s history. Ferran Torres is out due to appendicitis, and Jules Koundé remains sidelined. Flick may offer minutes to La Masia graduate Marc Casadó. Robert Lewandowski will lead the line, chasing a chance at a third European Golden Boot award.

**Predicted Lineups:**

* **Athletic Club (4-2-3-1):** Simón; Lekue, Vivian, Paredes, Berchinche; de Galarreta, Prados; Berenguer, Sancet; Boiro; Guruzeta
* **Barcelona (4-2-3-1):** Ter Stegen; García, Cubarsí, Martínez, Martín; de Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski

The match is expected to be an open affair, with Barcelona controlling possession and Athletic Club looking to exploit transitions.

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