Valverde: “We must be brave and show who we truly are"

Both Ernesto Valverde and Jesús Areso emphasised the importance of reacting to recent results and sustaining the ambition that has brought the team to this competition.

This Wednesday, Athletic Club faces a demanding fixture against Newcastle United at St. James' Park, a crucial match for the Lions to consolidate their position among the top 24 in the League Phase.

Ernesto Valverde focused his comments on the team sticking to their identity and continuing their good form in the Champions League.

"We are in a competition where, except for the first half against Dortmund, we have done well," he said. "We will try to continue that form and play a good match."

When asked about absences, the coach said that "those who are not in the squad list are not fit to play tomorrow".

The gaffer reiterated that team's always go through "better and worse moments throughout the season" when asked about the side's current league form.

"This is football," he said. "The results are close, both those for and against us. We would like to have more points, but tomorrow is an opportunity to regain our confidence."

Valverde concluded by stating that Athletic will always "always strive to move forward with our style". 

"We are here because the team has performed at a very high level. We must be brave and show who we are, maintaing what has brought us to the Champions League."

Areso acknowledged that "the derby defeat was painful" but was adamant that "it's in the past now".

He continued: "We haven't achieved the desired results in recent matches, but tomorrow's fixture is important, in a great stadium and against a great opponent."

The right-back praised the atmosphere created by our fans on European away days.

"Dortmund was crazy," he said. "There will be 3,000 people here too, and you feel their presence more in these stadiums. We are privileged to have them there."

Despite recent setbacks, he is confident the team will respond, saying: "We've faced some very tough opponents so far, but we have to look ahead. The victory against Qarabag gave us hope, and we have to try to build on that."

Areso emphasised the importance of LaLiga, a competition which he said "puts food on the table", without detracting from the Champions League.

As for the opposition, he believes "Newcastle are a very physical team who like to run into space". 

When it comes to his personal ambitions, the right back said: "I'm not looking to prove myself or secure a place in the team. My goal is to give my best so that the team wins or gets points."