Coach Ernesto Valverde of Athletic Bilbao addressed the press this Saturday afternoon ahead of Sunday’s fixture against Elche CF at San Mamés. The Basque club, already relegated to the Segunda División, faced questions about morale and momentum as they prepared to close the season. Valverde spoke about what was described as one of the team’s best spells of the campaign, even after the relegation had been confirmed. He noted that his squad, free from external pressure, could play with less constraint and more conviction, according to statements collected by EFE.
Valverde stressed that there is no sense of disappointment among the Rojiblancos supporters despite the late-season setback, including the recent loss to Osasuna in Pamplona that saw them fall from seventh place and miss direct qualification for European competition next season. He reminded that football is a single match that must be played to its conclusion, and that each game deserves full effort, regardless of context.
He added that the actual outcome of other results cannot be controlled. The coach urged focus on the immediate challenge and what can be achieved in the final match, noting that the team must win to influence the table in the remaining league games. He recalled the Getafe-Osasuna scenario where the Navarre club would defend seventh place, underscoring the interconnected nature of the final fixtures and their impact on qualification spots.
Valverde acknowledged that all losses sting, and the team had reached the season’s end after taking some risks in pursuit of the goals set at the start. He said the squad is capable and has shown strengths, while also recognizing areas for improvement. He characterized Athletic Bilbao as a solid team with clear qualities and determinadas in-game dynamics, despite visible shortcomings that need attention in the off-season.
The coach indicated that he could not save any of the five players who missed the Al Sadar match, namely Yeray Álvarez, Iñigo Martínez, Dani García, Ander Herrera, and Jon Morcillo. He also noted that several others were dealing with various physical issues. Dani Vivian and Aitor Paredes were involved in training with minor discomfort, and Mikel Balenziaga alongside youngster Junior Viita were dealing with minor setbacks. On Friday, Nico Williams was battling a worsening flu in the final hours before kickoff.
Valverde emphasized preparation and resilience, noting that the squad must be ready to step up when called upon. He made a point of reinforcing players stepping into new roles and maintaining a positive, proactive mindset. He did not confirm whether he would continue as coach at the helm or whether Julen Agirrezabala would return to starting duties, potentially returning ownership of the side to Unai Simón if required. The overall message was that the team must approach the upcoming match with focus, determination, and confidence in their readiness to compete, no matter the circumstances, and with an eye on continuing to grow as a club.
Note: All comments reflect Valverde’s remarks as reported by the agencies and media outlets covering the session. For context, the season has seen Athletic Bilbao balance competitive moments with unavoidable setbacks, and the club remains focused on finishing the campaign with a strong performance at home and evaluating squad options for the next phase of competition.