Athletic Bilbao are set to face Valencia in a La Liga match that carries significant weight for both sides. Athletic are looking to push for European qualification. Valencia are equally desperate for points.
Valverde Emphasises the Importance of European Qualification
Athletic manager Ernesto Valverde has highlighted the significance of securing a place in Europe. He noted the competitiveness of the league. “The extra place in Europe…is a very important incentive,” Valverde stated. “We are going to try to do the same this year,” he added, referring to the team’s consistent fight to be at the top of the standings.
Valverde acknowledged the confidence boost from their recent victory. He also stressed the need to maintain a high level of alertness. “After winning, you always have that point of confidence and joy…But well, we want to face the match against Valencia,” he said. “We have to take advantage of the momentum from the last match,” Valverde added, while also recognising the benefits of the tension and alertness that come with a tight situation.
Valencia’s Need for Points
Valverde is aware of the pressure Valencia are under. “They arrive with a lot of need, like many teams,” he said. He pointed out that Valencia had appeared to gain some breathing room. However, they have not yet surpassed the 40-point mark traditionally seen as a safety net. “They come with the intention of winning us and going forward,” Valverde stated.
Valverde anticipates a match filled with tension. Both teams have a lot at stake. “The differences are shortened and they are matches with maximum tension for everything that each team is playing for in matches that are played on fire because there is no turning back,” he said.
Praise for Nico Williams
Valverde also commented on Nico Williams’ recent performance. “The other day he scored two goals, which always helps,” he said. He acknowledged the process of reintegration and regaining confidence after Williams’ return to the team. “The goals help the forwards a lot to dare to do things and in that Nico is a sure thing.”
Athletic face a week of three matches as they try to get closer to European qualification. “We are going to see how this end of the season occurs,” said Valverde.