Barcelona has a chance to move to the top of La Liga’s pecking order with a win over Athletic Club on Thursday.

July 19, 2026; East Rutherford, New Jersey, U.S.; Spain midfielder Rodri (16) against Argentina during the FIFA World Cup Final at New York New Jersey Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

How to watch Barcelona vs Athletic Club

Date: Thursday, August 27, 2026

Time: 2:30 PM EDT

Channel: ESPN Deportes

Stream: Fubo (try for free)

Hansi Flick’s Barcelona made a storming start to its defense of La Liga and hopes to collect the maximum six points from six when it hosts Athletic Club on Thursday. Los Cules hit five past Elche without response on Sunday and return to league duties just four days later in search of another win against an ailing Athletic side.

Barca’s summer recruits are already proving their worth in Spain after Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi – signed for a combined fee of more than $125 million – came up with three direct goal involvements on debut. And that’s still with Ballon d’Or winner Rodri entering the field after being omitted from Flick’s squad due to a lack of match fitness.

Edin Terzic had a debut of his own after leading Athletic out for the first time as manager in a competitive setting on Saturday, losing 3-1 at home to Sevilla. Los Leones’ chances were decimated after just 11 minutes when left-back Yuri Berchiche was sent off, and the Basque hosts paid the price as they fell to the base of La Liga.

Berchiche’s suspension will make any chances of an upset at the Camp Nou that much more difficult,  though Nico Williams should return to the starting XI. Rodri could make his debut on home soil if Flick decides the import from Manchester City is ready, particularly after fellow midfielder Gavi suffered a bruised knee at Elche.

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