Liverpool Gears Up for Pre-Season Return: Anfield Set for Athletic Club Double-Header

After a well-deserved break, Liverpool FC is set to begin its pre-season preparations for the upcoming 2025/26 campaign, with fans eagerly anticipating their first glimpse of the squad in action. The Reds will kick off their summer schedule with a unique double-header friendly against Spanish side Athletic Club at Anfield on Monday, August 4th. This fixture marks a significant step in their build-up, following their initial pre-season encounter against PSV Eindhoven on July 26th.

The upcoming clash against Athletic Club promises an intriguing contest. Historically, Liverpool and Athletic Club have crossed paths on a few occasions in competitive fixtures, with the Reds holding a slight edge. Their past encounters have been characterized by tactical battles, showcasing the contrasting styles of English and Spanish football. According to records, the two clubs have met a total of four times in official competitions, with Liverpool securing two wins, Athletic Club claiming one victory, and one match ending in a draw. This friendly will add another chapter to their limited but always competitive history.

Liverpool, one of the most decorated clubs in English football, boasts an impressive trophy cabinet. The Merseyside giants have been crowned English League Champions a remarkable 20 times, a feat that puts them among the most successful clubs in the country. Their European pedigree is equally formidable, having lifted the prestigious European Cup/UEFA Champions League six times, more than any other English club. Additionally, Liverpool has secured the FA Cup eight times, the League Cup a record 10 times, and the FIFA Club World Cup once in 2019. These numerous accolades underscore the club's rich history and relentless pursuit of success.

The friendly against Athletic Club, set to feature two consecutive 90-minute matches on August 4th, provides an excellent opportunity for manager Arne Slot to assess his squad's fitness, integrate new signings, and fine-tune tactics ahead of the new Premier League season. Playing at Anfield, in front of their passionate home support, will undoubtedly add an extra layer of excitement and intensity to what is typically a softer pre-season fixture.

As the Reds prepare for the August 4th encounter, supporters will be keen to see the players shake off the summer rust and begin their charge towards another season of challenging for silverware across all competitions. This friendly against a quality La Liga opponent like Athletic Club is a crucial part of Liverpool's pre-season puzzle, setting the tone for what promises to be an exhilarating campaign.