Athletic Club and Real Sociedad’s Lineups Confirmed for San Mamés Basque Derby
The highly anticipated Basque Derby between Athletic Club and Real Sociedad is set for Sunday at San Mamés. This clash comes on the heels of Athletic’s recent UEFA Champions League elimination. Kickoff is scheduled for 21:00 hours, and fans can catch the action on Movistar.
Athletic Club’s Challenging Situation
Athletic Club faces a critical match as they attempt to escape relegation. They have gained just one point from their last five fixtures, now only three points above the relegation zone. The pressure mounts for coach Ernesto Valverde and his squad as they strive for a much-needed victory.
Real Sociedad’s Positive Momentum
In contrast, Real Sociedad arrives in Bilbao with impressive form. They are currently the top team in La Liga and boast a new head coach, Rino Matarazzo, who was named Manager of the Month for January. With their recent performance, they stand three points ahead of Athletic Club, showcasing a significant turnaround from earlier in the season.
Lineups and Injuries
In terms of player availability, Athletic Club will be without several key players:
- Oihan Sancet (muscle injury)
- Iñaki Williams
- Dani Vivian
- Iñigo Lekue (serving a suspension)
- Yeray (starting training shortly)
- Maroan Sannadi (knee surgery)
- Unai Egiluz (knee surgery)
- Beñat Prados (knee surgery)
On the other hand, Real Sociedad will miss:
- Take Kubo (hamstring injury)
- Rupérez (recovering from meniscus surgery)
- Arsen Zakharyan (muscle problems)
- Duje Caleta-Car (suspended after a red card)
Match Officials
The referee for this vital matchup will be Guillermo Cuadra Fernández, with Carlos del Cerro Grande overseeing VAR decisions.
As the teams prepare for the Basque Derby, the atmosphere is electric. This rivalry promises to deliver the intensity that both clubs and their supporters expect.
