Ernesto Valverde, a legend for Athletic Bilbao, has announced that he will not continue coaching the team next season. He made the announcement via video published on official channels. The decision was reached with the board. The announcement comes before the final stretch of the season, with the team focused on their last ten league matches in the hunt for a Conference League spot.
Valverde stated that it is a decision he has been considering for some time and has discussed with the club. He had been questioned about his future in recent appearances, but always avoided the subject.
Valverde’s Departure and Potential Replacements
Uriarte tried to change Txingurri’s mind by any means possible. The director of football announced some days ago that they would speak with him in the coming weeks to define the future. Iraola is a profile that the club like a lot. Iñigo Pérez also fits the bill. According to AS, the favourite for Uriarte right now is Edin Terzic.
Terzic is a 43-year-old German ex-footballer and coach who has managed Borussia Dortmund in two spells and won a German Cup. He took the team to a Champions League final, which they lost against Madrid. He has worked with figures such as Klopp, Bilic and Favre. As a player, he had a modest career with Westfalia Herne, Wattenscheid 09 and Cloppenburg.
Valverde’s Legacy at Athletic Bilbao
Valverde departs after a decade as Athletic Bilbao coach, across three spells, one of two years and two of four. He has won a Supercopa (2015), a Copa (2024) and two Champions League qualifications (2014 and 2025).
Athletic said in their farewell statement that there are ten matches left in which they have much to gain and that a proper send-off is pending. As coach he has managed 494 matches, and is set to reach 500. As a player, he spent 6 seasons with 188 appearances.
- Valverde will not continue as Athletic Bilbao coach next season.
- Iraola is a profile that the club like a lot.
- Edin Terzic is reportedly Uriarte’s favourite to replace Valverde.
The club president wants to begin a new mandate after this stage in charge of Ibaigane since 2022.