Real Madrid Vs Athletic Bilbao: Latest Updates Preview 2024

The La Liga battle between Real Madrid and Athletic Club Bilbao is shaping up to be one of the most eagerly anticipated fixtures of December 2024. With both teams in the mix for high-stakes league positions, the upcoming match promises plenty of action. Real Madrid, currently facing some injury concerns, is preparing for this critical game with manager Carlo Ancelotti aiming to guide his squad through a packed December schedule. Here’s a complete breakdown of the current situation at Real Madrid and the challenges they will face against Athletic Bilbao.

Real Madrid Injury Updates and Fitness Boosts

As December unfolds, Real Madrid finds itself managing several injury concerns, which have impacted key players across different positions. However, there is a silver lining as some of these injured stars are beginning to make their way back to fitness.

One of the most significant updates for Real Madrid fans is the recovery of Aurelien Tchouameni, the French midfielder. Tchouameni, who has been a key player in Carlo Ancelotti’s midfield, has missed some matches due to a niggling injury. However, sources indicate that the dynamic midfielder is nearing full recovery and could feature in upcoming gamesFootball España. This is great news for Ancelotti, who values Tchouameni’s physicality and tactical awareness, especially in a high-pressure match like the one against Athletic Bilbao.

In contrast, Toni Kroos, who has been a regular starter for Real Madrid, is also dealing with fitness issues. While he hasn’t been sidelined for long, Real Madrid’s management has been cautious about overloading him with minutes. The same goes for Luka Modric, whose contributions are crucial, but his age means he needs rest during some of the busiest stretches of the season Sports Mole.

On the positive side, Jude Bellingham continues to shine for Real Madrid. The English midfielder has been in exceptional form, providing a creative spark and leadership in the middle of the park. His ability to drive forward and contribute both defensively and offensively has been instrumental in Real Madrid’s ongoing success Football España.

Real Madrid’s star player, Kylian Mbappe, remains one of the biggest draws for the team. Despite some minor fitness concerns throughout the season, the French forward has been crucial to Real Madrid’s attacking strategy, especially in pivotal moments like penalty kicks and key matchups Football España. His sharpness and creativity will be tested in the demanding La Liga and Copa del Rey fixtures ahead.

Carlo Ancelotti’s Tactical Approach

Carlo Ancelotti’s leadership continues to be one of Real Madrid’s key strengths. As he juggles the fitness concerns and the demands of multiple competitions, Ancelotti’s tactical decisions will come under the microscope, particularly against a solid side like Athletic Bilbao.

Ancelotti’s strategy for the match against Bilbao is likely to center on controlling the midfield and exploiting the pace of his attacking players. Tchouameni’s return provides added security in midfield, allowing Bellingham to operate more freely further up the pitch. The importance of Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo Goes on the wings will also be magnified, as their speed can break down Bilbao’s defense Sports Mole.

Defensively, Ancelotti has been experimenting with different formations this season. Given Bilbao’s physical style of play, the backline, including David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger, will need to be at their best to neutralize the threat posed by Iñaki Williams, one of the most dangerous forwards in La LigaFootball España.

Athletic Bilbao’s Form and Srategy

Athletic Bilbao, under the management of Ernesto Valverde, has been performing admirably in the 2024/2025 La Liga season. Positioned in the upper half of the table, they are a team that is difficult to break down at home, particularly at their iconic San Mamés stadium. They also boast a strong squad that includes players like Iker Muniain and the ever-dangerous Iñaki Williams, who are known for their pace, strength, and ability to create chances Football España.

Bilbao’s defensive structure is solid, and they are known for their intensity and pressing style. They will aim to disrupt Real Madrid’s possession game and exploit any defensive lapses. However, their task won’t be easy, especially given Real Madrid’s offensive firepower. For Bilbao to have a chance, they must capitalize on set pieces and counter-attacks, areas where they’ve historically found success Sports Mole.

Upcoming Fixtures: La Liga and Copa del Rey

The match between Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao is part of a crucial month of December for both teams. Real Madrid, who are aiming to secure a top position in La Liga, will need to continue their momentum and make sure they remain competitive in every fixture. This includes not only their league challenges but also their involvement in the Copa del Rey, where they are expected to go deep into the competition Football España.

Athletic Bilbao, meanwhile, will be looking to disrupt the top teams’ rhythm as they push for European qualification spots. Their fixture against Real Madrid is an important one, especially since they will also be balancing Copa del Rey commitments Football España.

Key Matchups to Watch: Real Madrid vs Athletic Bilbao

This fixture promises to deliver high-intensity football, with several key battles that could determine the outcome:

Vinicius Jr. vs Unai Simón: Vinicius has been in fine form, and his duel with Bilbao’s goalkeeper, Unai Simón, will be crucial. Simón has been exceptional for Bilbao this season, and keeping Vinicius at bay could be key to their success.
Iñaki Williams vs Antonio Rudiger: Williams’ pace and power against Rudiger’s defensive prowess will be a key tactical battle. Rudiger’s ability to keep Williams from exploiting space behind the defense will be critical.
Midfield Battle – Bellingham vs Unai Vencedor: Jude Bellingham has taken on a leadership role at Real Madrid, and his ability to dictate the tempo will be essential. Bilbao’s Unai Vencedor, a tireless midfield presence, will need to disrupt Bellingham’s rhythm to keep Real Madrid’s attack from flowing freelyFootball EspañaSports Mole.

Conclusion

With both teams entering this crucial December match in strong form, the contest between Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao is set to be a thrilling encounter. Real Madrid, despite some injury setbacks, boasts world-class talent like Bellingham, Mbappe, and Vinicius Jr., who can turn the game in their favor. Meanwhile, Bilbao’s well-coached squad, with the likes of Iñaki Williams and Unai Simón, will prove to be a tough challenge on their home turf.

Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical choices will play a pivotal role in determining how Real Madrid handles the intensity of Bilbao’s press and counters. All in all, this promises to be one of the most exciting fixtures of the season, with both sides aiming for vital points as the race for the La Liga title and Copa del Rey heats up.

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