Bleacher Report · Aug 15, 2019
Athletic Bilbao vs. Barcelona: Odds, Live Stream, TV Schedule and Preview
Barcelona begin the defence of their La Liga title away to Athletic Bilbao on Friday, sweating on the fitness of star man Lionel Messi.
The prolific No. 10 is dealing with a calf problem, and Ernesto Valverde hasn't expressed confidence his best player will be ready for the season opener. Valverde will still have an ample array of attacking talent to choose from, including big-money summer import Antoine Griezmann.
Athletic's chances of causing an upset will hinge on dynamic forward Inaki Williams. The 25-year-old recently put pen to paper on a new deal set to run for nine years, per BBC Sport.
A goal against the champions at San Mames would be the ideal way for Williams to celebrate.