“This is a big chance to take a step forward”

Before the press conference got underway, Ernesto Valverde expressed his sympathies and condolences to the Turkish people after the fire that led to casualties at ski resort in the city of Bolu.

He said: "Our thoughts are with those affected by the accident at the ski resort. A similar tragedy occurred close to us and we express our deepest sympathies."

In terms of sporting matters, the coach stressed that Wednesday's opponents "are playing at home and, for that reason, that always makes them a dangerous side". 

He continued: "We have the chance to take an important step forward, but we know it's very difficult. Besiktas are a great team with great players and they'll be motivated by the arrival of a new manager. We'll try to play our game and get all three points."

With two League Phase matches left, Ernesto reiterated that Athletic's aim is to go straight into the round of 16, without having to play an extra match.

“We want to go straight to the last 16. It's something that all the teams are looking for, to get out of a play-off and go straight through. All of this depends on winning tomorrow."

Gorka Guruzeta followed his gaffer's tone, stating that the team is returning to Turkey "desperate to win tomorrow's game and compete for the top places.

"We've played some very good games in Europe and tomorrow we want to put the icing on the cake."

The forward also spoke about the possibility of Besiktas changing style under new coach Ole Gunnar Solsjkaer.

"We'll probably see new things with Besiktas' new coach, but we have to focus on what we do, make the game difficult for them and create chances to win."