After winning the 2022 Europa Conference League under José Mourinho, AS Roma, now led by Daniele De Rossi, have struggled to regain their form this season.
They began their league campaign with two draws and a defeat. The first match ended in a goalless draw against Cagliari, followed by a 2-1 home loss to Empoli. In their third match, Roma once again settled for a draw. Since then, they have played Genoa and are preparing for a home game against Udinese.
Athletic Bilbao, a club with a storied history including 8 La Liga titles and 24 Copa del Rey trophies, remains a strong presence in Spanish football.
Their unique tradition of fielding players of Basque origin continues, and this season they have had an average start, recording one win, one loss, and two draws.
Last season, Bilbao finished 5th, earning a direct place in the Europa League. So far this season, they have played Las Palmas and Leganes away, and Celta Vigo at home.
Roma has seen several key departures in recent years, leading them to make significant signings such as Artem Dovbyk (€30 million from Girona), Matias Soulé (€25 million from Juventus), and Enzo Le Fée (€23 million). Departures include Houssem Aouar (to Al-Hilal for €12 million), Joao Costa (to Al-Ettifaq for €9 million), and Tammy Abraham (on loan to AC Milan).
Bilbao made waves by retaining Nico Williams, despite interest from Barcelona, and his brother Iñaki also remains a key player for the club.
However, both Unai Simon and Alvarez are long-term injury concerns. Bilbao had a quiet transfer window, with the notable exit of Unai Núñez to Celta Vigo for €7 million, while Alvaro Djalo arrived from Braga for €15 million.
Prediction
Athletic Bilbao has been effective on the road in the Europa League, earning points in 15 matches, all of which featured fewer than three goals.
Similarly, seven of Roma’s last eight home games in the Europa League have also had under 3.5 goals. With both teams known for their cautious style, this match is likely to be a low-scoring affair.
Prediction: AS Roma 1 : 1 Athletic Bilbao
