Despedida acorde al año realizado

Valverde, recently renewed until 2026, shows his desire to close this historic season in the best possible way: «It’s our last game, we play at home against the champion and De Marcos says goodbye. I think there are enough incentives to motivate us.»

The coach of Athletic Club, Ernesto Valverde, has appeared before the media after extending his contract for another season: «I wanted to wait until everything was finalized. The last few weeks have been busy with so many games, there was hardly any time for anything else. We had talked before, it was just a matter of communicating it. It was easy. When I sign a contract, I always say that what I would like most is to fulfill it because for a coach, it’s a lot. It’s been nine years so far with the prospect of one more, and the harmony is good. I would like to continue this way, although I know it’s difficult. It’s about moving forward and trying to have a better team. We will compete in a very powerful competition like the Champions League next season. I’ve experienced it here, I know it, and it’s tough. We have to face it«.

For the red and white coach, the most important thing is to be true to his principles: «It’s clear that if a coach remains in his position, it’s because he gets results. That’s how it is. It’s also true that this Club has chosen to achieve them by competing differently, which gives you many benefits but also demands some sacrifices. Ultimately, they are the result of the work you do, and what you want is to see yourself reflected in it in such a way that you can identify with it. We have to feel like we’re part of something and at the same time believe that what we’re doing is what we like, serves us to win, and we believe in it«.

Regarding tomorrow’s match, in which the lions will close the season with a visit from FC Barcelona, Valverde believes it will be a special occasion: «It’s our last game, we play at home against the champion and De Marcos says goodbye. I think there are enough incentives to motivate us. It’s not a game that is lost out there, but it’s significant. We know there will be a good atmosphere in the stadium, and we want the people who come to San Mamés to celebrate with us. Obviously, we will seek victory. It’s difficult because of the opponent we have in front of us, as they have been the best in the competition. We want to have a farewell that matches the year we’ve had«.

Finally, he wanted to have some words of recognition for captain Óscar De Marcos: «Directing him has been something different because of who he is from a personal point of view and how he has been within the group dynamics. He has always been an important player. Beyond thinking that he is an example for his behavior on and off the field and for what he has conveyed, he will say goodbye at 36 in front of a lot of people, an extraordinary footballer with great physical and technical qualities that he has improved over time. That has allowed him to stay at the highest level throughout his career. I admire him from a personal and professional point of view. He had made the decision because he had been thinking about it for several seasons«.