The main candidate for Athletic to replace Ernesto Valverde

Ernesto Valverde is on thin ice due to Athletic's poor start to the LaLiga season.

Javier Parra Peña | 3 Nov 2025 | 21.00
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The main candidate for Athletic to replace Ernesto Valverde
The main candidate for Athletic to replace Ernesto Valverde

Premier League
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The Athletic Club of Bilbao is in a full transition phase and has already pointed to coach Andoni Iraola as the main candidate to succeed Ernesto Valverde on the bench.

A moment of change is approaching as the current coach's contract expires this summer with no progress in the renewal, prompting the red and white club to activate a strategic plan for the new phase.

Athletic Club faces a pivotal decision: to opt for continuity or make a shift in its style. Valverde has embodied stability in recent years, but wear and tear are evident, and the club does not want to leave anything to chance. Thus, the sports management has begun the search for a coach who respects the club's identity, values Lezama's talent, and has competitive ambition. In this scenario, Andoni Iraola emerges as an alternative with the desired profile.

Athletic Club analyzes Andoni Iraola's profile

Athletic Club closely observes Andoni Iraola's work in England at Bournemouth, where he has shown an offensive, dynamic, and modern proposal. This evolution catches attention in Bilbao, where they appreciate that the former lion understands the club's values and can implement his own style with young players from the academy. Iraola aligns directly with the philosophy of the Basque club: intensity, commitment, and a focus on the youth academy.

Athletic Club believes that unless an unexpected turn occurs, the decision will be made before the end of the season, with the aim for the new coach to prepare for the upcoming campaign from day one. They seek a smooth transition to avoid surprises. Additionally, Iraola's experience in demanding competitions adds value to his candidacy.

The main candidate for Athletic to replace Ernesto Valverde

Andoni Iraola, a future bet for Athletic Club

Athletic Club considers that Andoni Iraola represents not only continuity but also a medium- to long-term project. His arrival could signify a generational change while maintaining the club's identity and adapting to the evolution of modern football. In Bilbao, it is estimated that Iraola could connect with the fans and revitalize a team in need of new energies.

However, the operation will not be without obstacles: Athletic Club will need to negotiate contractual conditions, possible player transfers, and squad structure to accommodate the new coach. Time is of the essence: the sooner it is confirmed, the more room Iraola will have to define the squad, style, and objectives.

Athletic Club at a turning point

Athletic Club is at a turning point. The decision on their new coach could set the roadmap for the coming years. With Andoni Iraola as the top choice, the club aims to preserve its identity while also modernizing its approach and staying competitive. The fans are already awaiting an announcement to close the Valverde era and approach the new challenge with excitement.

In conclusion, Athletic Club is ready to step into a new era, and Andoni Iraola emerges as the figure with the strongest support to lead that transition.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El principal candidato del Athletic para suplir a Ernesto Valverde