Athletic Club Prepares for Challenge Against Osasuna

Athletic Club will kick off 2026 with an away match against Osasuna this Saturday. Coach Valverde held a press conference prior to the team’s training session, as well as the traditional Christmas lunch with the press.

Regarding health in the new year, Valverde expressed, “We aim to minimize injuries, as they significantly disrupt our plans. It is challenging to manage this due to the competitive pace and the number of matches, yet it impacts all teams.”

On the holiday break, he stated, “We need to win matches. While the year has been overall positive, especially the first half, we are currently facing more challenges in securing points. We have another half-season to reinforce our strategies and improve our execution. We have reflected on our performance—there are aspects we excel at that we must continue, but we have lost half of our league matches, which was not the case last year. We need to actively pursue effective dynamics, as a moment of inspiration won’t guarantee goals. Perseverance is key to building a confident team that highlights our strengths while minimizing flaws.”

Regarding the immediate goal for 2026, Valverde said, “For now, our focus is on winning against Osasuna. This will be an extremely tough match against a strong opponent at home. Long-term objectives must be achieved through short-term efforts. We need to recover points we’ve lost along the way and engage in the fight.”

When discussing Osasuna, Valverde noted, “They have secured two solid home victories against Alavés and Levante, which I assume has boosted their confidence. They have made adjustments as the season progresses and recently acquired an important player, Galán. At home, they are a formidable team, defending well in mid-zone and being dangerous in space.”

On the recovery of players Yuri and Laporte, he indicated, “They may be a bit short for the Supercopa, but I expect they will be available afterward.”

Valverde reflected on Athletic’s record in Pamplona, stating, “Interestingly, they have performed well here, and we have done well there. It is a derby between two closely ranked teams and always carries significant stakes. Expect a high-tempo match, with lateral crosses being key; they possess a strong strategy we need to defend against while also attacking effectively. We must prepare thoroughly and maintain high motivation.”

Discussing Lisci’s coaching, Valverde remarked, “Last year, he had an outstanding season with Mirandés. Osasuna is a strong team, and he attempts to instill organization and space-based play. While they haven’t secured many points away, they remain a recognizable Osasuna with traditional traits. Sometimes, keeping things simple is the most challenging aspect of football.”

Lastly, on the winter transfer market, he commented, “It is open for everyone, and we will see what unfolds. For now, I am counting on the players we currently have. I am uncertain if anyone will leave or join, which I expect to be more complicated.”