In-depth Analysis
Real Madrid have already secured a second-place finish in the 2025/26 La Liga season, meaning their final-round clash against Athletic Bilbao carries little significance in terms of points. With the campaign essentially decided, Los Blancos do not appear to be approaching this match with maximum intensity, as it mainly serves as a farewell to the season.
The atmosphere at the Santiago Bernabeu is reportedly quite tense at the moment, with several internal issues affecting the club. Head coach Alvaro Arbeloa is said to be struggling to maintain control of the dressing room, especially after multiple reports of conflicts between players in recent weeks. Some sources have even mentioned serious disputes that have created a heavy and divided atmosphere within the squad.
Arbeloa’s future at the Bernabeu also appears increasingly uncertain. Real Madrid’s board are reportedly preparing for a managerial change, with Jose Mourinho emerging as one of the leading candidates to take charge next season. These off-field distractions have inevitably impacted the team’s focus during the closing stages of the campaign.
As a result, Real Madrid’s final La Liga match of the season could be played in a relatively relaxed manner, lacking the usual intensity associated with the club. This may offer Athletic Bilbao a rare opportunity to cause an upset at the Bernabeu — something they have failed to do since 2021.
However, the visitors themselves have little left to fight for. Bilbao currently sit 12th in the standings, safely clear of relegation but with virtually no chance of qualifying for European competition. Consequently, this trip to Madrid also feels more like a formality than a decisive encounter.
Bilbao’s recent form has also been far from convincing, with just one victory in their last five La Liga matches, alongside one draw and three defeats. Given such inconsistency, earning all three points at the Bernabeu remains a difficult task.
With both teams lacking strong motivation, a draw appears to be the most likely outcome for this match.