Athletic Bilbao will be aiming to make a statement when they welcome Sevilla to San Mames for the opening round of the 2025/26 LaLiga season. The highly anticipated clash, set for a 20:30 local time kick-off, promises contrasting narratives as both sides look to set the right tone for the campaign.
The Basque side enter the season with mixed emotions. Despite finishing fourth last term and securing a long-awaited return to the Champions League, their pre-season form has raised doubts. Ernesto Valverde’s men have suffered six defeats in seven friendlies, including heavy losses against Premier League opposition. However, the retention of star winger Nico Williams, who was strongly linked with Barcelona before committing to a new contract, is seen as a huge boost. Alongside his brother Iñaki Williams and the experienced Alex Berenguer, Nico’s pace and creativity will be pivotal in breaking down Sevilla’s defense.
Sevilla, by contrast, endured a torrid 2024/25 season, finishing just one point above the relegation zone. New coach Matias Almeyda has already begun to instill belief, guiding the team through an encouraging pre-season where they suffered just one defeat in seven games. New arrivals Gabriel Suazo, Alfon Gonzalez, and goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos have injected freshness, while Dodi Lukebakio remains their most reliable attacking outlet after scoring eleven goals last season.
Team selection will be key for both sides. Athletic will miss key players through suspension and injuries, with Yeray Alvarez and Oihan Sancet among those unavailable. Jesus Areso is expected to start at right-back, while Robert Navarro could make his debut in midfield. Sevilla also have fitness concerns, with Loic Bade, Joan Jordan, and Tanguy Nianzou doubtful. Almeyda is expected to start Suazo at left wing-back, with Kwadwo Adams partnering Lukebakio in attack.
This fixture has historically favored Athletic at San Mames, but Sevilla’s strong pre-season suggests a more competitive battle. Ultimately, the spotlight will fall on Nico Williams, whose flair and explosiveness could prove the difference. If he rises to the occasion, Athletic will have every chance of beginning their season with three points and building early momentum in their return to Europe’s elite stage.
