Luís Castro faces a tight selection call as Levante travel to San Mamés to face Athletic Club, with the squad balancing returning options and enforced absences just a day before kickoff.
The biggest confirmed miss is Matías, who will not be available after a head contusion. Even though he has medical clearance, concussion protocol has kept him from training normally and Levante have decided not to take any risks. At the same time, Castro gets a boost with Pampín and Unai back fit and available, easing two immediate selection concerns.
Castro also highlighted strong internal competition across the squad and specifically praised goalkeeper Mathew Ryan, stressing that performances are raising the pressure for places throughout the team.
Athletic arrive with recent cup momentum, and Castro expects a demanding match in Bilbao. He pointed to Athletic’s threat from wide areas and the volume of crosses as a key danger Levante must defend with full concentration.
There are still a few uncertain elements. Castro said Levante will not change their plan depending on whether Nico Williams plays, and questions remain around Arriaga’s situation after the window, with no clear details provided. Overall, Levante go into the game making careful decisions under short notice, shaped by concussion protocol, limited preparation time, and intense competition for the starting XI.
