Guruzeta and Valverde want to see a reaction against Slavia Praha

The head coach and forward both stressed the importance of getting a result against Slavia Praha in order to keep our Champions League hopes and alive to gain some positive momentum.

With 12 points still up for grabs, the need to pick up points and a tight league phase table, both agree that Tuesday night's match at the Fortuna Arena is crucial.

"We know it's a very important match because of the points we have and the points we still need to get," Guruzeta said during his pre-match press conference in Prague.

"Hopefully it goes well and we can take on the final three matches in the best shape possible."

Guruzeta, who has scored three goals in the competition so far this season, stated that his job is to do everything possible to help the team get three points.

He said: “I couldn't have imagined playing three matches and scoring three goals in the Champions League, but tomorrow the important thing is to help the team in any way I can, whether that's starting, coming off the bench, setting up a goal or scoring."

When asked about rotations and playing time, Gorka reiterated that "Ernesto is the best manager we could have. I try to make the most of every minute he gives us".

The forward recognised that the team isn't at its best level right now, but he's hopeful that on Tuesday night they "can put in a better performance that will give us strength ahead of a demanding end to the year".

He also spoke about last season's meeting with Slavia, which Athletic won 1-0, saying: "Last year we faced them and won; tomorrow we want to repeat that so we can take a step forward."
 

Valverde emphasised the need to turn the page after Saturday's defeat against FC Barcelona, which he described as a "a tough setback, with mistakes that cost us dearly".

"But we have to look ahead," he continued. "We have four games left in the Champions League and each one can make or break you."

The coach is expecting a high-intensity match, saying: "Games against Slavia are always extremely tough.  

"Played a relentless pace and lots of back and forth, without respite. They're a side that never look back and I admire the work their coach does."

The manager also stressed how important this match is in terms of the League Phase standings: "There are 12 points left. We need to win if we want to continue. It's not just about winning, but also about regaining our confidence."

He concluded by warning that his players should expect a raucous atmosphere at the Fortuna Arena, a stadium he has experienced before as a manager.

"I know what this ground is like. The atmosphere is fantastic. We need to be strong and go out there with the aim to win."