Ernesto Valverde admits Athletic Club want ‘revenge‘ against Barcelona ahead of La Liga clash

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·07 de março de 2026

Ernesto Valverde admits Athletic Club want ‘revenge‘ against Barcelona ahead of La Liga clash

Following their elimination from the Copa del Rey at the hands of Atletico Madrid at the semi-final stage, FC Barcelona are set to return to action in La Liga tonight, on Saturday, as they face Athletic Club at San Mames.

The Catalans would be facing one of their former coaches, i.e., Ernesto Valverde, in this game, and as SPORT has reported, the Spanish coach talked to the press ahead of this game.

Vídeos OneFootball

One of his most notable remarks was his admission that his side is eager for revenge after Athletic Club were eliminated from the Spanish Super Cup by Real Sociedad. At the same time, he also took the opportunity to praise Barcelona ahead of the clash.

“Of course, we’d like that; we all want revenge against Barça. They usually show no mercy to their opponents. If they beat you by big margins, it’s for a reason. They are the current champions, the league leaders, and candidates to win the league again.”

Valverde went on to recognize how difficult it would be to stop the Blaugrana attack:

“What we like least is that Barça have a way of playing that dictates how you have to play against them. Their high defensive line gives you an option, but their attack is very difficult to stop. You have to be attentive to everything. Even if you defend well, you can still struggle. They allow chances, but converting them isn’t easy.”

When asked if it was a good time for his side to face the Catalans, who have a difficult UCL tie awaiting them, the Spaniard replied:

“We’ll be able to say that after the match. They have more objectives besides the league. They lost two players through injuries, plus Frenkie de Jong. The schedule is tight and demanding. With the change in kickoff time, we’ve had even less rest. It’s clear they’re focused on the league.”

When asked about Barcelona’s key players, Ernesto Valverde named several:

“The main keys of the team… Raphinha, Pedri, and Lamine Yamal are fundamental players. Also, Fermín López and Pau Cubarsí. There are many to choose from. Lamine is in extraordinary form right now. I couldn’t pick just one.”

There is no doubt that with several important players absent, Barcelona would face quite a challenge to beat Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic Club side tonight, but they need a win as their closest rivals in the league race, Real Madrid, took the full three points from their match against Celta Vigo last night.