Valverde: “We hope it will be a celebration for everyone"
Valverde: “We hope it will be a celebration for everyone"
The boss spoke to the press ahead of Athletic's clash with Villarreal, the first LaLiga fixture after winning the Copa del Rey
Ernesto Valverde stressed the importance of "coming back down to earth" as Athletic Club get set to face Villarreal CF at San Mames on Sunday evening (18:30 CEST)
Los Leones have spent the last week celebrating the historic Copa victory in Seville, but Valverde urged his players to not lost sight of what's at stake in LaLiga EA Sports.
"We hope that the Copa will spur us on to achieve the challenges that lie ahead. We're going to try to harness that positive energy to keep going," the boss said at his pre-match press conference.
"It's clear that this week has been one of strong emotions, of celebration. Now let's focus on tomorrow's game, one in which we have a lot to play for."
The boss warned Athletic will have to be wary of a powerful and in-form Villarreal side, led by former Lions coach Marcelino.
He said: We know Villarreal's strengths. They're in an upward phase and with serious prospects of getting into Europe. They will certainly be a difficult opponent because they're strong away from home."
In addition, Valverde wanted to say a few words of thanks after the win at La Cartuja.
He continued: "Following on from what De Marcos said before the final, I want to thank everyone who has helped us to achieve this.
"Especially to all the players who couldn't play in the final, all the coaches who have helped us in the past and to all the club's workers who play an important part in all of this".
Ernesto went on to mention the 1984 champions, calling them "a source of inspiration" and adding how the current players were keen to "take on the baton" in their honour.
Txingurri also thanked the fans "for their faith and their unwavering devotion to Athletic and to us".
He added: "Both Thursday and Seville were a demonstration to the world about Athletic means. From now on, whoever wants to be an Athletic fan, wherever they come from, is welcome."
To conclude, the Zurigorri coach extended his condolences to the family of Gerardo Flores, the Club Member who passed away during the celebrations in Bilbao: "He will always be with us."