Atletico Madrid are in a precarious position as they prepare to host Athletic Bilbao in a crucial La Liga match this Saturday. Currently sitting fourth in the table, Diego Simeone's side holds a slender three-point lead over Athletic Bilbao, who are pushing hard for a Champions League spot.

Atletico's recent form has been concerning, with a humiliating defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League followed by a surprise loss to Alaves in La Liga. These setbacks have piled pressure on Simeone's shoulders, and a win against Athletic is essential to maintain their Champions League qualification hopes.

Athletic Bilbao, on the other hand, are brimming with confidence after their Copa del Rey victory. They boast a perfect record against Atletico this season, having won both their La Liga meetings and defeating them in the Copa del Rey semi-finals.