Barcelona – Athletic Club: The Catalans’ Utter Domination (2-0)

Sitting in a medium block against Barcelona is a one-way ticket to disaster. Edin Terzic didn't learn his lesson from Barcelona's 5-0 thrashing against Elche. In the end, Hansi Flick's side created 4.06 xG in a game in which the Catalans underperformed in front of the net.

Tactical analysis and match report by Achraf Lamdarhri.

Barcelona was one of the busiest clubs in Europe in the transfer market. With Robert Lewandowski's departure, Marcus Rashford's loan coming to an end, Ferran Torres going to Paris Saint-Germain, and Ronald Araujo landing in Liverpool, arrivals were a must. Before the World Cup, Barcelona signed Anthony Gordon from Newcastle. Karim Adeyemi came from Dortmund, and Joao Cancelo joined from Al Hilal. Lately, Barcelona sealed the deal with Manchester City to secure Rodri's services. Nonetheless, the Catalans are still looking for a striker. Atlético Madrid keeps denying Barcelona's offers, refusing to sell the Argentinian to a direct rival.

After departing Borussia Dortmund at the end of 2023/24, Edin Terzic returned to take over a position in the dugout of Athletic Club. The Basque team decided to part ways with Ernesto Valverde after a challenging 2025/26 season, leading to mid-table inconsistency. Athletic Club's transfer market revolved around the return of loanees. Peio Canales, Hugo Rincon, Vencedor, and Benat Gerenabarrena rejoined Athletic Club after their loan period came to an end. Edin Terzic's side started the season with a 3-1 loss to Sevilla and flew to Barcelona for a tough challenge against the league winners.

Edin Terzic started with Hugo Rincón at . . .