Both teams return to league action after the international break and are determined to secure important points in their respective ambitions for the season. Athletic Club, who missed three penalties in their last match, are looking for a win to jump into the top four, while Espanyol have made a strong start to life back in La Liga. With both teams facing a busy schedule, strategic decisions from managers Ernesto Valverde and Manolo Gonzalez could have a major impact on the outcome of the match. Attention will also be on the return of injured Spanish star Nico Williams for Athletic Club.