Real need to secure league title amid timely transfer
Ahead of the long season's final day, Real have a two-point lead over Real Sociedad, who are at home to Atletico Madrid. Both matches kick off at 7pm.
A Real Madrid draw or defeat would hand the championship to Real Sociedad provided they win because of their better head-to-head record.
Real Madrid are desperate to finish the season on a high note after missing out on the Champions League, and the players are unhappy that news of Beckham's move from Manchester United broke as they were preparing for Sunday's decider.
"It's difficult, but we have to remember there's an awful lot at stake on Sunday," Real defender Michel Salgado said from the club's training ground.
"We need to be thinking about the game against Bilbao and nothing else. It wasn't the perfect moment to announce the signing of Beckham." Bilbao will be playing for much more than pride on Sunday.
The Basques need the three points to be certain of a UEFA Cup place next season. They will also be eager for a victory to honour the memory of their club president Javier Uria, who died from cancer this week aged 41.
If Bilbao do manage to avoid defeat at the Bernabeu, Real Sociedad can take full advantage with a home win over Atletico Madrid, thrashed 4-0 at home by their Madrid rivals last week.
Sociedad were on course for a third league title, and their first since 1982, until last week's 3-2 defeat by Celta Vigo.
"It's not over yet," Sociedad midfielder Xabi Alonso reminded Real Madrid this week.
"It's true it's not in our hands any more but we're confident Bilbao can get something at the Bernabeu. They need to win as well to make the UEFA Cup."
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
