In recent weeks, Athletic Bilbao has had a fluctuating performance in La Liga, showcasing moments of brilliance but also lapses in connection on the field. As the team seeks to improve its position in the table, it is crucial to make tactical adjustments that enhance their collective play and maximize the individual skills of their players.

One aspect that has lacked consistency is the high press on the opponent's build-up. Athletic is known for its intensity and aggressiveness in pressing, but in some recent matches, they have allowed opposing teams to escape too easily from their defensive zone. To correct this, the coaching staff could implement a more coordinated approach where forwards and midfielders work together to close spaces and force errors in ball exit. This would not only increase opportunities to regain possession but also destabilize rival defenses from the onset.

Additionally, offensive transition is another area that needs refinement. Athletic has shown a tendency to stagnate in midfield, especially when facing teams that group well in defense. Including more off-the-ball movement and executing more dynamic positional changes could break through the opponent's defensive line, thus creating more goal-scoring chances. A player like Nico Williams, with his speed and ability to take on defenders, should be utilized in situations where he can receive the ball in open spaces and attack the rival defense in one-on-one situations.

Game management in midfield also deserves attention. In some matches, Athletic has been overrun in this area, leading to a lack of control over the rhythm of the game. Incorporating a midfielder with greater capacity to distribute play and connect lines, such as Oihan Sancet, could bring freshness and creativity to the game, as well as allow for better ball circulation.

Finally, the defense needs to be more compact and communicative. At times, there have been mismatches in the defensive line that have allowed rivals to create clear chances. Fostering greater cooperation between center-backs and full-backs, as well as establishing a system that prioritizes mutual coverage, could reduce individual errors and improve the overall solidity of the team.

With these tactical tweaks, Athletic Bilbao could not only strengthen its gameplay but also steer towards a more successful second half of the season. The passion and talent of Los Leones are there; they just need a bit of tactical sharpening to truly shine their potential.