Valverde: "Our intention is to continue like this"

Athletic Club coach Ernesto Valverde spoke ahead of the match against Girona FC tomorrow at Montilivi at 14:00 CEST. The Zurigorris beat AZ Alkmaar 2-0 in their second European fixture last Thursday and are in a positive frame of mind:

"It's a game that comes very soon and we'll see how we approach it. Our intention is to continue like this.

"We know that our opponents are at a very high level.

"The idea for everyone is to gradually recognise each other in the game we're playing. It's clear that each team has its own style and then that style has to help you get results. Some come one way and others another.

At the start of the season there have been games of all kinds, but generally we are in a good shape. The week in which we got three wins has really helped us to settle down.

"Now we have a tough test and we want to keep persevering.

"We've just come from a very clear focus on the return of Europe to San Mames and now we have to refocus. That's the difficult thing in such a short space of time.

"Whoever plays, we try to maintain our identity."

Valverde also analysed the Catalan side:

"They are playing with the same idea as last year. An attacking style, trying to start the game from the defending positions and then pressing up front by being aggressive.

"It's true that they've lost important players, others have come in who have to adapt a bit and, at the same time, they have another competition that is very demanding.

"It happens to all of us. Every season is different, with different players and we have to adapt everything to what we want.

"Girona is an absolutely recognisable team, regardless of the change. I see them in a good line.

"They can get it right more or less, the thing is that their last season was extraordinary and it's very difficult to repeat it.

"That's not a problem, I wish we all had it. I think they enjoyed it and now they are enjoying it too, playing in a competition as beautiful as the Champions League.

Míchel has also given them an identity in terms of the way they play."