FC Barcelona is gearing up for its last match of the 2024-2025 season, where it will face Athletic Club at the iconic San Mamés. With the LaLiga title already secured since matchday 36, the team led by Hansi Flick aims to close the championship with a win that reaffirms its dominance in Spanish football.
The culés, who have clinched the national treble this season, arrive at this match with high morale, despite a recent stumble at Montjuïc against Villarreal. The intention is clear: to bid farewell to the fans with a victory that adds to the legacy of a memorable campaign.
The German coach, Flick, has hinted that he might make several changes to his starting lineup, given that there is no pressure for points. In the last training session, a team with some modifications was observed, suggesting that less frequent players will have the chance to shine in this season's closing.
In goal, Marc-André ter Stegen could return to the starting eleven, while Szczesny and Iñaki Peña remain on the bench. In defense, Héctor Fort might take the right-back position, while the central axis could be formed by Araujo and Christensen, with Balde returning to the left-back position.
The midfield could also see significant changes. To avoid overloading Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, Marc Casadó could be a starter, marking his return after a long absence. Additionally, Gavi and Fermín López might get their chance in this match.
In attack, the focus will be on Robert Lewandowski, who is looking to reach the milestone of 100 goals with the culé jersey. Despite the absence of Ferran Torres due to an appendicitis operation and Ansu Fati's negotiations with Monaco, the Polish striker is determined to leave his mark in this final match.
FC Barcelona arrives at San Mamés as the champion of LaLiga, Copa, and Supercopa, turning this match into a celebration of football. Athletic, which has also secured its place in the upcoming Champions League, will pay tribute to its captain Óscar de Marcos, who bids farewell to professional football after 16 seasons at the elite level.
Both teams, although without urgency, will seek victory for the pure competitive spirit. Athletic, led by Ernesto Valverde, is in fourth place and wants to finish the season on a high note in front of its fans. Meanwhile, Barça, with an eye on the future, hopes to leave a final positive impression before starting the next season.
With the squad almost complete, except for the injured Marc Bernal, Jules Koundé, and Ferran Torres, the culé team is ready to give its best in this match that promises to be exciting and full of emotions.
The culé fans have already begun to dream about the next season, but first, it is time to pay tribute to a season that will be etched in the club's history. Go, Barça!