Atletico de Madrid vs Granada CF preview - Bielsa's Bilbao back to domestic matters

Posted Sunday, March 11, 2012 by PA

Marcelo Bielsa's Athletic Bilbao heroes must turn their attention back to domestic action on Sunday after their thrilling Europa League exploits at Old Trafford on Thursday.

The Basque outfit made headlines around the world this week with a superb performance which earned them a well-deserved 3-2 win over Manchester United in their last-16 first-leg clash.

Fernando Llorente, Oscar de Marcos and Iker Muniain were all on target as Athletic earned a one-goal advantage to take back for the second leg at San Mames next week.

But first they must negotiate a tricky trip to face local rivals Osasuna in the Primera Division, with just two points separating the sides as they fight for fourth place.

Goalscorer Muniain was quick to pay tribute to enigmatic Argentinian coach Bielsa, who has overseen such an impressive season on three fronts with a Copa del Rey final clash with Barcelona also coming up.

"At first we had a little trouble adapting to his technical ideas when he arrived last summer," the 19-year-old told AS. "It's based more on touch football and ball possession, but once we got everything it went great.

"We look forward to many years like this and want to keep this group together because we know we can do something big."

Osasuna utility man Damia Abella is keen to take their rivals down a peg or two.

"We're aiming for European football ourselves," he told his club's website.

"It's exhilarating. Obviously we know the target but it's nice to be up there fighting. Three points here will propel us towards that goal."

Damia hopes Athletic will have their eye off the ball following their European adventures.

"It's good for them but maybe they will be tired. They are one of the toughest teams in the competition and they have a good squad," he said.

"Their season has been very good but in the league they are two points above us and we're pretty even."

Osasuna boss Jose Luis Mendilibar could be without up to eight first-team players, including goalkeeper Ricardo, midfielder Masoud Shojaei, Marc Bertran, Kike Sola and Lola.

Bielsa, meanwhile, may rest Muniain after he was a doubt for Thursday's match.