In recent years, La Liga has been experiencing a significant decline in its defending performance, which has led to concerns about the league's stability and competitiveness. This is particularly true for Athletic Bilbao, who have consistently performed well in the defensive department throughout their history. However, as the season comes to a close, it appears that this record may be slipping away.

Athletic Bilbao's defense has always been one of their strong suits, with their ability to play defensively and press opponents effectively. They have also had some impressive performances over the past few seasons, particularly during the 2019-2020 campaign when they finished third in La Liga behind Real Madrid and Barcelona.

However, this season has seen a marked decrease in their defensive performance. The team has conceded more goals than any other team in the league this season, with only two teams (Barcelona and Atletico Madrid) having fewer goals conceded by Athletic Bilbao. This trend continues, with Athletic Bilbao currently sitting just four points behind Real Madrid and FC Barcelona in the table.

The reason for this decline in defensive performance is likely due to several factors. Firstly, the team has struggled to adapt to changes in tactics and strategies, with many of their players struggling to stay focused on their defensive duties. Secondly, the team has not been able to maintain high-quality performances at the back, with some players relying too heavily on their individual skills rather than being involved in collective efforts.

Despite these challenges, Athletic Bilbao remains a formidable force in La Liga. With a strong squad and a talented group of defenders, the team can still compete at the highest level. As the season draws to a close, it will be interesting to see how Athletic Bilbao performs going into the next round of fixtures.