BARCELONA are back in La Liga action – and out to defend their crown.

The Catalan giants head to Athletic Bilbao for the season curtain-raiser as they target another successful campaign, but have only won on one of their last three visits to this stadium.

What time is kick-off?

THIS La Liga opener is all set for Friday, August 16.

Kick-off at Bilbao's home Estadio San Mames is at 8pm BST.

When Barca visited this stadium last term, they were held to a 0-0 draw.

How can I watch for free?

SELECT La Liga matches are being shown on free-to-air TV in the UK this season.

Eleven Sports had exclusive rights to show Spanish league games on these shores last term, but their deal collapsed in December last year.

ITV swooped in and showed a number of matches from February – and that will continue into the 2019/20 campaign.

This game will be shown live on ITV4 and ITV4HD, with coverage starting at 7.45pm.

You can find the channel on Freeview, Sky, Freesat, Virgin Media, BT TV and TalkTalk TV.

If you want to stream, head to the ITV Hub or sign up for a free account at TVplayer.com.

You must have a valid TV licence – get one here.

What is the team news?

LIONEL MESSI is a major doubt as the superstar continues to be plagued with a calf complaint.

Philippe Coutinho has been linked with a move away from the Nou Camp all summer but could play a part, whilst Valverde has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from.

Bilbao have no major injury worry themselves and will be hoping to cause an early season shock on home territory.

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