Valverde: “This is a very important match for us”
Valverde: “This is a very important match for us”
LaLiga action returns to Bilbao after the international break and the boss is keen to see his side keep their unbeaten run intact
Athletic Club head coach Ernesto Valverde made it clear Saturday afternoon's clash with Cádiz CF at San Mames (14:00) is a must-win, especially as the Andalusians are level on points with Los Leones in the LaLiga standings.
The Zurigorri are unbeaten in their last three matches while Cadiz's only loss so far this campaign came against FC Barcelona in Catalunya.
"It's a very important match for us because we're on the same number of points at the moment," the gaffer said at his pre-match press conference.
"Cádiz are a tough team who are getting good results and who have done well at San Mames in recent years. We're in need of a win, which will be good for us."
The Yellows' coach, Sergio González, has managed to put his stamp on the Andalusians and Valverde admitted their good start to the season has not surprised him.
He added: "They're very competitive and from the first minute they're clear about how they want to play. They're doing well and it seems they know what they have to do to make this season easier for themselves than the last."
Saturday's duel will be Athletic's third home game of the season. The Lions are keen to make sure they "don't drop any points" on their return to The Cathedral after the recent international break.
"We're looking forward to going back home, to playing at San Mamés," Valverde said.
"This year we need to lose fewer points here. We need to be strong and be decisive in both areas. Let's see if we can keep this run going."