Athletic Club Faces Crucial January Challenges

Athletic Club is currently on their Christmas break and will resume training on Monday, gearing up for the derby against Osasuna. The rojiblancos were unable to conclude the year with a victory, leaving them five points shy of the Europa League spots as they bid farewell to 2025—an unusual position considering the team’s performance in recent seasons.

The start of 2026 poses significant challenges for the lions, with January set to shape the direction of their campaign. The month kicks off with the derby against Osasuna at El Sadar, where Athletic has won in their last two visits. However, they will face a revitalized Osasuna following an impressive end to 2025.

Additionally, January will feature the Supercopa de España in Saudi Arabia, where Athletic will compete against Barcelona in the semifinals. This high-stakes match presents an opportunity for the team to vie for their first title of the year.

Upon returning from Saudi Arabia, Athletic will enter the Copa del Rey, facing a second-division opponent to be determined on January 7. The Copa continues to inspire the rojiblancos, although potential matches at venues like Riazor or El Sardinero are anticipated to be challenging, filled with intense atmosphere and fervent rivalries.

Finally, January will be crucial for the club’s European competition ambitions. They will face two pivotal matches: one in Bergamo against Atalanta and another at San Mamés against Sporting. To remain in contention for the Champions League, Athletic must deliver their best performances and aim for victory in both encounters.

In summary, 2026 begins with intensity for the lions, who will need to significantly improve their performance to ensure that, by the end of January, they remain competitive beyond just La Liga.