Real Madrid vs Athletic Bilbao preview

Real Madrid managed to beat Levante by 2-1 on a water-logged pitch last weekend. Jose Mourinho's men are currently eight points behind Barcelona and they are also trailing their city rivals, Atletico Madrid by five points.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Mesut Ozil will return to the starting line up for the reigning Spanish champions. Ronaldo was elbowed last wekend while Ozil picked up a knock. These two players will be joined by Sami Khedira and Karim Benzema, but Gonzalo Higuain and Marcelo won't be part of the action at the Bernebeu.

The visitors
Oscar de Marcos and Ander Herrera will play no part in this game due to suspension.

Athletic Bilbao have not had a good season and they are not expected to leave the Spanish capital with any point.

Even though Madrid will play against Manchester City in some few days from now, Mourinho will name a strong squad for this fixture.

Our prediction:
Real Madrid 3-1 Athletic Bilbao