Valverde uses irony over penalties by popular acclaim after Athletic defeat

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·18 January 2026

Ernesto Valverde was visibly annoyed after Athletic’s defeat, believing the game had been there to be won.

According to El Correo, he underlined the team’s frustration with VAR decisions.

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He employed irony when reflecting on two disputed spot-kicks, describing them as penalties by popular acclaim.

He felt those moments marked the contest.

He also noted that two players will be unavailable for the next match.

Source: El Correo