This coming weekend marks a for Barcelona as they return to the Spotify Camp Nou after two and a half years of exile.
Athletic Membership will turn out to be the primary membership to play in opposition to Barcelona within the newly renovated Camp Nou, in opposition to the backdrop of Nico Williams’ failed transfer to Catalonia final summer time.
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Retaining that in thoughts, Athletic Membership expects a fiery reception in Catalonia and their defender Inigo Lekue is properly conscious of the strain.
What Lekue mentioned forward of Barcelona vs Athletic Membership
Chatting with forward of the Barcelona recreation this weekend, Lekue admitted he expects hostility from the native supporters.
“I don’t know what the actual feeling is in the direction of Athletic there; it wouldn’t shock us if it’s hostile. Soccer thrives on rivalries,” he mentioned.
The tensions between the 2 golf equipment boiled additional when Barcelona knowledgeable Athletic that no away tickets and ongoing development, leaving over 400 Athletic members who entered the ticket draw stranded.
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“Given the membership we’re and the dressing room we’ve, it impacts us. It’s household and associates who’re signing up,” he mentioned. “It’s a disgrace they’ll’t be there to cheer us on.”
Lekue just isn’t afraid of Lamine Yamal. (Picture by Maja Hitij/Getty Photographs)
So far as the sport is anxious, Lekue can be straight tasked with containing Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal.
“I’ve the identical respect for him as I do for Barcelona gamers, who’re among the many greatest in Europe and the world,” Lekue acknowledged. “Lamine makes the distinction, and we’ll attempt to stop that on Saturday.”
Relating to the health state of affairs of Oihan Sancet and Nico Williams, Lekue famous: “Oihan is best; he’s began coaching with the group. I don’t know if he’ll be capable to play this Saturday or not.
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“Nico completed with a incredible aim; it’s an harm that has its ups and downs, and these weeks have been good for him to regain his kind.”
Lastly, the defender talked about Athletic’s comparatively poor kind this season, which may stem from their further involvement within the UEFA Champions League this season.
“Taking part in each three days means most bodily and psychological exhaustion because of the schedule. The workforce lacks the solidity and competitiveness of final 12 months,” he concluded.