Champions League ambitions encourage Barca gamble in Bilbao

The dream of returning to the European throne for the first time since 2015 may lead Hansi Flick's side to take their eyes off the ball in La Liga this weekend. The Spanish champions visit Athletic Bilbao on Saturday, going into the weekend with a four-point lead on rivals Real Madrid, who visit Celta Vigo on Friday. With Alvaro Arbeloa's side at a low ebb following Monday's defeat against Getafe, Flick may choose to use the breathing room to gamble on heavy rotations before next week's Champions League last 16 clash at Newcastle.