Balenziaga: “While Europe is still possible, we’ll fight for it”

Athletic Club left-back Mikel Balenziaga promised the Lions would not stop fighting to qualify for Europe while it remains numerically possible.

The Lions face Getafe CF in Bilbao this Friday (21:00 CET) in what is the first of Athletic’s last 10 matches of the campaign. With 30 points up for grabs, and 18 of them to be played for at San Mamés, Balenziaga refused to rule out European qualification.

“There are lots of points to be won,” the defender said at a pre-match press conference on Wednesday morning.

“There are 10 matches left. We know that getting into Europe is still mathematically possible and we’re going to give it our all to make it happen, starting this Friday.

“The last few seasons we’ve been very close but it’s eluded us. This year it’s also within reach. We’re going to have ten very tough matches, but as long as it’s still possible, we’ll keep fighting for it.”

On Tuesday morning, Mikel put pen to paper on a contract extension which will keep him at Athletic until June 30, 2023. The new deal means next season the full-back will be taking part in a twelfth campaign as a Lion.

“I feel an enormous sense of pride as well as responsibilty,” said Balenziaga. “But I’m very excited to be able to stay at Athletic for another season. I’d like to thank everyone who made the contract renewal possible.

“I’ve always felt that as long as I can contribute to the team, not just in the dressing room but on the pitch too, then I’d be happy to stay.” 

Balenziaga said the fans will play a “huge role” as the Lions look to add to their good form at San Mamés, which has seen them win three games on the bounce in Bilbao.

He added: “San Mamés is vital. We need that warmth from our own. We’ve become a tough team to beat at The Cathedral and we want to keep showing that. The way the fans support us at home is very important.“