Ernesto Valverde has stunned LaLiga by announcing his Athletic Bilbao departure at the end of the season.
A two-time Spanish champion with Barcelona, the Basque native reached a career highlight with a Copa del Rey triumph coaching Athletic in 2024.
Qualification for this season’s Champions League followed, but that’s where progression stopped and league form has taken the same turn.
Athletic are currently tenth in the top flight and dogged by inconsistency, but the players have been keen to blame themselves.
Captain Inaki Williams has publicly defended Valverde on multiple occasions, but the coach has now taken the decision upon himself.
Valverde says goodbye
Speaking on the club’s website and social media channels, Valverde said: “This appearance is to announce that I will not be Athletic’s coach next season.
“It’s a decision I’ve been considering for some time, and which I’ve also discussed with the club. I wanted to share it with you.”
He added: “At the same time, I want to emphasize that we have ten important league matches left, starting this Sunday against Betis.
“Ten matches in which we want to achieve our objectives, in which we have a lot to gain, in which we will give our all, and which, undoubtedly, if we all stick together, we can achieve, without a doubt.”
Valverde has the most games of any coach in Athletic’s history, currently on 494, meaning he will top half a century by the end of the season.
Williams won’t be happy
Speaking after celebrating a stoppage time winner against Valencia with Valverde, Athletic captain Williams said: “In the world of football, he’s always the one whose head is being demanded.
“Ernesto is very important to Athletic Club. The dressing room is 100% behind the coach, and we can’t imagine any other manager.
“He deserves all our respect, and if he asks us to give him a high five, we’ll see it. Let’s see if that takes away his bad mood.
“We deserved a moment of joy like this, the players, the fans, and the coaching staff.
“This season has been difficult, but today could be a major turning point.”
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