FC Barcelona is gearing up to bid farewell to the 2024/25 season in an iconic setting: San Mamés. This Sunday, the culés will face Athletic Club in the 38th round of LaLiga EA Sports, a match that, although it does not affect the standings, holds great significance for both teams.
The team led by Hansi Flick arrives at this match after having conquered the national treble, lifting the league title last week at Montjuïc. With morale high, Barça aims to close the season with a victory that would allow them to match their best second half of the season in history, with 16 wins, 2 draws, and only 1 loss.
On the other hand, Athletic Club also has reasons to celebrate, as they have secured their spot in next season's Champions League as the fourth-placed team. Despite not winning the Europa League title, Ernesto Valverde's side has had a remarkable season, suffering only 5 losses throughout the league.
Both teams come into this match with positive feelings, although with different realities. While Barça has secured the future of its stars, Athletic may face several key departures in the upcoming summer transfer market, starting with Nico Williams, who has been linked with several major clubs, including Barça.
The match will not only be an opportunity for Barcelona to showcase their dominance on the field but will also serve as a tribute to De Marcos, a key figure for Athletic who will bid farewell to the fans. The lions, who arrive with three consecutive victories and an unbeaten streak of five matches, will aim to put on a good show in their final outing of the season.
In the first round encounter, Barça won 2-1 at Montjuïc, with goals from Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski. This Sunday, the culés will seek to repeat that feat and, in the process, reach the 100-goal mark in the league, something they haven't achieved since the 2016-17 season.
As the curtain is about to fall, FC Barcelona and Athletic Club are set to deliver a spectacle that will undoubtedly be remembered by fans. The match is scheduled for this Sunday at 21:00 hours at San Mamés, where celebration and football will come together in an emotional farewell to the season.