In order to catch up to Real Madrid, Barcelona needs to defeat Athletic Bilbao.
Barcelona has been in excellent form in La Liga this season, losing just two games. Since 2011, they have not conceded a goal in any of their last five league contests.
With the second-best record in the league and Robert Lewandowski leading the top-scorer statistics with 11 goals in 10 games, Barcelona is also flourishing on the offensive front.
Nevertheless, despite having a strong start to the season, they are currently ranked second, only behind Real Madrid.
When Barcelona hosts Athletic Club, they will be looking to win all three games. Bilbao, who also enjoyed a fantastic start to the season, has gone winless in their last three matches.
Additionally, they have a poor record against Barcelona at Camp Nou. Their 20 games without a victory over Barcelona are their second-worst streak in the league. However, Barcelona must bring their best selves, and cannot let the past dictate the outcome.
Barcelona vs Athletic Club predicted lineups
Barcelona XI (4-3-3): Ter Stegen; Alejandro Balde, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Hector Bellerin; Gavi, Sergio Busquets , Pedri; Dembele, Lewandowski, Fati
Athletic Bilbao (4-2-3-1): Simon; De Marcos, Inigo Martinez, Yeray Alvarez, Inigo Lekue; Dani Garcia, Oihan Sancet, Muniain; Alex Berenguer, Inaki Williams, Nicholas Williams
Barcelona will face Bayern Munich on October 26 in a contest that will be akin to a cup final following their meeting with Athletic Bilbao since they must win their final two Champions League games to have any chance of qualifying.
Then, on November 1st, Barcelona will play Valencia, who are currently in ninth place in the league, before a pivotal Champions League matchup against Viktoria Plzeň.