Valverde leaves Lekue out of Athletic squad to face Valencia | OneFootball

According to Superdeporte, Athletic Club have named 23 players to face Valencia at San Mamés, with Iñigo Lekue again omitted by the manager’s decision.

The versatile full-back was also left out in the previous match at Mendizorroza. Valverde repeats a call on a player who had long been a reliable squad option.

Otherwise it is a steady list. Unai Egiluz, Maroan Sannadi and Beñat Prados are again not included. Athletic approach the game without new injuries or suspensions, a rarity at this stage.

Valverde retains the core of his regular starters for a test Bilbao regard as high stakes. Valencia, led by Carlos Corberán, arrive in good form, their European hopes still alive.

From a Valencianista perspective, the selection suggests Valverde is offering no concessions. He leans on a trusted, familiar group with few changes to maintain rhythm in a run-in where every point counts.

Lekue’s position is drawing attention in Bilbao, his role has shrunk in recent weeks. With no injury or ban, repeated non-selection underlines his reduced status.

San Mamés expects a big-game atmosphere between ambitious sides. Athletic aim to consolidate European places and extend their home authority, while Valencia look to keep pace with the continental race.

Source: Superdeporte