Overview

• Girona travel to Athletic bottom of LaLiga with one point after shipping about 15 goals in five matches.
• Míchel rejected talk of being questioned or facing an ultimatum, arguing the system is not at fault and calling for humility from his players.
• The squad faces seven absences through injuries, suspensions and call-ups, with Witsel and Vítor Reis banned, Lemar injured and Joel Roca away on U‑20 duty.
• Recent analysis ties the downturn to last season’s Champions League toll and summer exits of key figures such as Miguel Gutiérrez, Yangel Herrera and Krejci, with pressing now more cautious.
• Athletic coach Ernesto Valverde emphasized seriousness and respect for Girona, noting the importance of the fixture as his side look to halt a run of three defeats without scoring.