'The team is ready to play in Europe': Terzic backs Athletic Club for European push
Bilbao, Aug 14
New Athletic Club head coach Edin Terzic believes his side has the quality to challenge for European qualification in the upcoming La Liga season, setting an ambitious target ahead of his first competitive campaign with the Basque club.
The former Borussia Dortmund coach took charge of Athletic during the summer after Ernesto Valverde stepped down following the conclusion of his fourth season in his third spell at the club.
Athletic endured an inconsistent 2025-26 campaign and finished 12th in La Liga. However, Terzic has been encouraged by the team's preparations for the new season, with the club suffering just one defeat during pre-season.
"The team, based on quality, is ready to play in Europe. If we deserve it, it will be because we work harder and better, and that will prepare us. Europe is one of our objectives," he said a week before Athletic opens its league campaign at home to Sevilla, as quoted by Xinhua.
Terzic, 43, has also been impressed by the strong bond between Athletic and its supporters since his arrival in Bilbao. The German believes the unique connection between the club and its fan base can provide an additional source of motivation for his players.
"I see the connection people have with the club, and you feel the pride. It doesn't matter how old you are, whether you're a man, woman, boy or girl, everyone feels a connection to the club, and that makes me very proud to coach this team," he said.
The former Dortmund boss also played down concerns over the pressure that comes with taking charge of Athletic, insisting that he places greater expectations on himself than anyone else could.
"In football, everyone talks about pressure, but there's pressure in everything in life. I don't feel that external pressure; the pressure is internal. Nobody can put more pressure on me than I put on myself," Terzic said.
— IANS
Reader Comments
European football is gaining so much popularity in India now. Athletic Club has such a rich history, and it's refreshing to see a coach who understands the emotional connection between the club and its supporters. In India, we have similar bonds with our cricket teams and even our local football clubs. Wishing Terzic and Athletic all the best for the season! 🙌
Terzic's mentality about pressure is spot on. The internal pressure he talks about - that's something we Indians understand well, whether it's in education, business, or sports. When you hold yourself to high standards, external noise doesn't matter. Athletic finished 12th last season, but with this mindset, they could definitely push for Europe. Let's see how they perform against Sevilla!
I love how Terzic appreciates the bond between Athletic and its fans. Here in India, we're known for our passionate sports fans - from cricket to football to kabaddi. The way Bilbao supports their club reminds me of how we support our teams. It's not just about the game, it's about identity and pride. Hoping Athletic makes it to Europe! 🤞
Good to see a German coach bringing that disciplined mindset to La Liga. Terzic's approach and the club's Basque-only policy actually share a similarity - both emphasize staying true to your roots. As someone watching from India on TV, I really appreciate Athletic's unique identity in modern football. European qualification would be a great achievement for them.
while i respect terzic's ambition, finishing
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