Valverde: “It will be a tough match”
Valverde: “It will be a tough match”
On a busy day for Athletic, Ernesto spoke to the press ahead of our clash with Atlético Madrid at The Cathedral
Athletic Club head coach Ernesto Valverde warned that the Lions will be in for a difficult test as they host Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid side at San Mames on Saturday evening.
Atlético Madrid have strengthened their ranks across the pitch this summer, bringing in the likes of Julián Álvarez, Connor Gallagher, Robin Le Normand and Alexander Sorloth.
"They'll be in highly motivated because of their competitive nature," Valverde said about Atlético Madrid at his pre-match press conference. "They're capable of beating anyone, anywhere. It will be a tough match."
"Atletico Madrid have been very ambitious in investing in the team and trying to get great players. Of course, because of what they have invested, they will look to challenge for LaLiga, as they have done in the past - as well as in the Champions League and the other competitions they're taking part in."
Valverde is happy with the loan signing of Unai Nuñez, saying it was a "good deal" for the club, with it allowing Unai Egiluz to go on loan to CD Mirandés.
The gaffer added: "It's a positive move. Unai's a player with experienced and, bearing in mind that we'll play more matches this season, he could be good for us.
"What's more, it allows Egiluz to go out on loan and continue gaining experience. We believe these were good deals for both the players and for us."
As for the Europa League draw, Valverde said Athletic must be prepared "to sweat for every point", with the Lions being handed some complicated fixtures.
Athletic will face Slavia Prague, Viktoria Plzen, AZ Alkmaar and IF Elfsborg in Bilbao, in addition to away clashes with Fenerbahce, Besiktas, AS Roma and Ludogorets.
"Everything is different. We know the format, but we don't have the experience of playing it," he stated.
"We'll see how it goes. We're playing eight different teams, with four tough away matches. It's an attractive competition and we'll see if we can play well and progress.
"There are no easy opponents in this competition, all of them are difficult. We'll have to sweat for every point."