"Starting with the hosts, although Athletic Bilbao might have come flying out of the traps as they won each of their opening three La Liga appearances, Ernesto Valverde's men have come crashing back down to earth since returning from September's international break. Getting their iconic Champions League return underway with a 2-0 loss at home against English giants Arsenal last week, the one-time Barcelona boss is desperately seeking an essential boost here."
"However, last seen over the weekend putting in another toothless performance as they fell to another 2-0 defeat against Valencia, Bilbao have failed to find the net since returning from September's fortnight interval. However, cruising their way to a routine 3-0 victory when they last welcomed Girona to the Basque Country back on February 8th, Valverde's side should be smelling a potential opportunity in midweek."
"Athletic Bilbao Team News Picking up a straight red card away at Valencia over the weekend, defensive talisman Dani Vivian will miss out through suspension here. Likewise, not featuring since returning from September's international break, Nico Williams remains a major doubt. Returning to San Mames on Deadline Day after completing a move from Saudi outfit Al-Nassr, former Manchester City star Aymeric Laporte should make his second full La Liga debut. Despite still waiting to open his account this season, Inaki Williams will lead the line."
"As for the visitors, enduring what has been a public crisis continuing on from last season, it is no secret that Girona are widely regarded as a standout relegation contender this year. Last seen over the weekend putting in another woeful performance as they slumped to an infamous 4-0 drumming at home against La Liga returners Levante, Michel finds the pressure on"
Athletic Bilbao won their opening three La Liga games but have since struggled after the September international break. The team lost 2-0 at home to Arsenal in their Champions League return and suffered a 2-0 defeat to Valencia, leaving them without a goal since the break. Bilbao beat Girona 3-0 at San Mames on February 8th and will view the match as an opportunity. Defender Dani Vivian is suspended after a straight red, while Nico Williams is a major doubt. Aymeric Laporte has rejoined and should start; Inaki Williams will lead the attack. Girona are in a public crisis and are viewed as relegation contenders after a 4-0 home defeat to Levante, increasing pressure on coach Michel.
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