Zakharyan twisted ankle and won't make it, but I have many options for the starting eleven

Zakharyan twisted his ankle and will miss Sunday's Athletic clash; Matarazzo expects him back for Lyon midweek.

Pellegrino Matarazzo confirmed in his pre-match press conference that midfielder Arsen Zakharyan has been ruled out of the upcoming fixture against Athletic Bilbao after twisting his ankle. The manager initially thought the player might recover in time but has now accepted his absence. Zakharyan is expected to return for the following Thursday's match against Lyon.

Despite losing the midfielder, Matarazzo indicated he has plenty of options for the starting eleven. He praised the form of several players and highlighted Jon Mikel Aramburu as ready to face Athletic's Nico Williams. The manager also commended Athletic's quality, singling out Nico Williams and goalkeeper Unai Simón, who was recently named the world's best goalkeeper.