Athletic Bilbao lineup vs. Real Madrid: Will Julen Agirrezabala or Unai Simon start in goal?

Athletic Bilbao head coach Ernesto Valverde will have to decide whether to start Julen Agirrezabala or Unai Simon in goal for Wednesday's clash against Real Madrid at San Mames.

Agirrezabala has featured in 12 of Athletic's 15 La Liga matches this season, enjoying regular game time in the absence of regular number one Unai Simon.

The Spain international has spent a significant time on the sidelines after undergoing wrist surgery following his country's success at Euro 2024.

Simon made his long-awaited return to action in last Thursday's 3-0 win over Swedish side Elfsborg in the Europa League.

However, Simon has had to settle for a place on the bench in Athletic's last two league games, and his lack of match practice could persuade Valverde to stick with Agirrezabala.

Oscar de Marcos and Dani Vivian are set to return to the side to feature in a back four alongside Yeray Alvarez and Yuri Berchiche.

Benat Prados, who is available following a one-match ban, is expected to line up in the middle of the park alongside Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta.

Inaki Williams and Nico Williams will try to provide an attacking threat from the flanks, while Oihan Sancet should shake off an ankle issue to feature in the number 10 role.

Valverde will have to decide whether to use Gorka Guruzeta, Alex Berenguer and Alvaro Djalo as the central striker, with the latter hoping to return to the starting lineup after being on the bench for the last two matches.

Meanwhile, experienced midfielder Ander Herrera will be missing from the matchday squad after picking up a hamstring injury.

Athletic Bilbao possible starting lineup: Agirrezabala; De Marcos, Vivian, Alvarez, Berchiche; Ruiz de Galarreta, Prados; I. Williams, Sancet, N. Williams; Djalo

>Click here to see how Real Madrid could line up for this fixture