Valverde Leaves Athletic After Ten Years as Coach

Former Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde has announced his departure from the club after a decade in charge. His tenure follows six seasons as a player for the Basque side. Valverde arrived at Athletic in 1990, signing from FC Barcelona. At the time, the club was overseen by president Lertxundi and coach Clemente. He said, "They did me a great favour, of course." The statement underscores his gratitude toward the institution. Valverde added that he has always been involved in all of the club's teams. His connection spans both his playing and managerial periods. He noted that Athletic is the place where he achieved the most, felt the most recognized, and grew in a different way. The environment, he explained, fostered a unique personal development. Valverde described the support of the people as distinct, saying the atmosphere is unlike any other. He concluded by calling the community a clan.