Valverde's 23 for Bergamo: no Williams, Vesga and Serrano included | OneFootball

Athletic Club has officially announced the squad list for the crucial Champions League match against Atalanta in Bergamo.

After a final training session marked by uncertainty, Ernesto Valverde has put together a group of 23 players, shaped by significant absences, especially in the attack and on the flanks. 

The main negative news is confirmed by the absence of key players such as Iñaki Williams, Nico Williams, Berenguer, and Yuri Berchiche. These four footballers, fundamental pillars in the offensive and defensive schemes of the "lions," are not included in the final list to travel to Italy.

Aymeric Laporte is also missing from the squad, a loss that weakens the heart of the defense. These absences will force the team to reinvent itself in a high-stakes European setting where effectiveness will be crucial.

Mikel Vesga returns... and so does Nico Serrano

On the positive side, the squad list includes the return of Mikel Vesga and the presence of Nico Serrano, who has ultimately been included in the coach’s plans despite initial doubts.

Additionally, the inclusion of Andoni Gorosabel stands out, as he strengthens the right flank in a list where the experience of players like Unai Simón, Lekue, or Galarreta will be vital to guide the younger players in the hostile environment of Bergamo.

Lezama, well represented

Faced with a wave of injuries, Valverde has firmly backed the talent from Lezama. The squad features a strong representation of youngsters and players registered with the reserve team such as Padilla, Santos, Jon de Luis, Rego, Ibon Sánchez, Selton, Hierro, and Adrián Pérez.

This commitment to the youth academy is not just a necessity, but also an opportunity for the jewels of the red-and-white structure to make their debut or establish themselves in the top continental competition against one of Serie A’s most tactical opponents.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 ANDER GILLENEA - AFP or licensors