San Mamés salutes Ernesto Valverde, Lekue honoured on emotional night | OneFootball

San Mamés saluted Ernesto Valverde before facing Celta, his name echoing around La Catedral. Versatile full-back Iñigo Lekue was also honoured on his retirement.

According to as.com, Valverde walked through a guard of honour formed by the current squad and former players from across his three spells in charge. He said beforehand he hoped not to get too emotional, mindful there was a match to play.

José Ángel Iribar presented him with a statue of his trademark crouch to mark 503 games as Athletic coach. Gurpegui, wearing a sling after a cycling accident, De Marcos, Iturraspe, San José, Murillo, Etxebe and Susaeta were among those present. There were group photos on the pitch and warm applause as Valverde greeted Claudio Giráldez.

Before kick-off, Iribar and captain Iñaki Williams handed Lekue a framed number 15, marking his retirement after 11 seasons with the club. The team also showed support for Unai Egiluz, who has suffered another right knee ACL rupture, posing with his number 13 shirt.

After the 1-1 draw with Celta, the Grada de Animación unfurled a banner depicting Valverde and Lekue with the Cup, inscribed “Betirako (para siempre), Gracias”. Both moved to the front rows to listen as supporters read their message.

Source: as.com