Athletic Club star talks Yamal, Nico Williams, Camp Nou ahead of crunch La Liga clash vs Barcelona | OneFootball

This coming weekend marks a historic milestone for Barcelona as they return to the Spotify Camp Nou after two and a half years of exile.

Athletic Club will become the first club to play against Barcelona in the newly renovated Camp Nou, against the backdrop of Nico Williams’ failed move to Catalonia last summer.

Keeping that in mind, Athletic Club expects a fiery reception in Catalonia and their defender Inigo Lekue is well aware of the tension.

What Lekue said ahead of Barcelona vs Athletic Club

Speaking to AS ahead of the Barcelona game this weekend, Lekue admitted he expects hostility from the local supporters.

“I don’t know what the real feeling is towards Athletic there; it wouldn’t surprise us if it’s hostile. Football thrives on rivalries,” he said.

The tensions between the two clubs boiled further when Barcelona informed Athletic that no away tickets would be provided due to security reasons and ongoing construction, leaving over 400 Athletic members who entered the ticket draw stranded.

“Given the club we are and the dressing room we have, it affects us. It’s family and friends who are signing up,” he said. “It’s a shame they can’t be there to cheer us on.”

Lekue is not afraid of Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

As far as the game is concerned, Lekue will be directly tasked with containing Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal.

“I have the same respect for him as I do for Barcelona players, who are among the best in Europe and the world,” Lekue stated. “Lamine makes the difference, and we’ll try to prevent that on Saturday.”

Regarding the fitness situation of Oihan Sancet and Nico Williams, Lekue noted: “Oihan is better; he’s started training with the group. I don’t know if he’ll be able to play this Saturday or not.

“Nico finished with a fantastic goal; it’s an injury that has its ups and downs, and these weeks have been good for him to regain his form.”

Finally, the defender talked about Athletic’s relatively poor form this season, which could stem from their additional involvement in the UEFA Champions League this season.

“Playing every three days means maximum physical and mental exhaustion due to the schedule. The team lacks the solidity and competitiveness of last year,” he concluded.