Athletic Club enters Sunday’s match against Valencia as the first step in a demanding run of three games in one week, with European qualification still within reach. Ernesto Valverde said the extra European spot “is an extremely important incentive,” pointing to a tight league where small margins now shape the race.
The Athletic coach stressed that the squad wants to keep the momentum from its latest win while preserving the same level of alertness that helped it compete under pressure. He also made clear that the team must keep its focus on Valencia first, even with the broader European target still in view.
A race defined by narrow margins
Valverde described this stage of the season as one in which many teams are separated by very little. That situation, he said, creates matches with maximum tension because every point can change the picture quickly.
Athletic’s message is to stay competitive without getting distracted by the table. The coach said the team has a good points total for looking ahead, but also that nothing can be taken for granted in a league where differences have become so small.
Valencia arrive under pressure
The opponent also carries urgency into the match, according to Valverde. He noted that Valencia have not managed to move beyond the 40-point barrier and that they come with the clear intention of beating Athletic.
For Athletic, that makes the contest especially significant because Valencia won the first meeting between the sides. Valverde also suggested that this season may require around 42 points for safety, a sign of how intense the fight has become across the division.
Keeping confidence and tension in balance
The Athletic coach said winning naturally brings confidence and a better mood, but he wants that to be matched with the same competitive edge shown in the previous week. He described that mix of confidence and alertness as vital for the days ahead.
That approach matters because the club faces a busy stretch and a string of matches where little separates one result from another. Valverde underlined that the team must remain prepared for every scenario and keep its focus on the work needed in each game.
Nico’s impact after his brace
Valverde also highlighted Nico, who scored twice in the last match and gave the team an important boost. He said the goals help both the player and his environment understand that recovery and reintegration take time.
According to the coach, Nico needed rhythm and good feelings after returning, and the goals can now help him play with more confidence. Valverde called him a reliable forward, noting that scoring often allows attacking players to try more things on the pitch.