Athletic Bilbao kicked off the 2026‑27 pre‑season at Lezama on July 7, with new manager Edin Terzic in charge and 30 players on the training pitch. The day featured medical checks, fitness drills and Terzic’s first talk with the squad, while several injury absences forced an early schedule tweak.

What happened in the first session?

The lions arrived at the complex from 09:00 under bright sunshine and were split into two groups for medical evaluation and physical tests. The grass session, slated for 10:30, was played behind closed doors and served as Terzic’s first contact with the roster. That same day, the club officially unveiled the coaching staff, highlighting the set‑piece specialist who worked with Scotland at the World Cup.

Who missed the training and why?

Iñaki Williams, eliminated with Ghana, visited Lezama as captain but remained on holiday. Egiluz, operated on June 3 for a right‑knee ACL reconstruction, was also absent. Additionally, Gorosabel suffered a moderate right long‑adductor strain and will miss the opening pre‑season phase. Unai Gómez and Vencedor were out as well: Gómez was finalising his Udinese move in Italy, while Vencedor does not fit Terzic’s plans for midfield reinforcement.

Which players returned from loans?

Five players came back from their respective loans: Agirrezabala, Hugo Rincón, Gerenabarrena, Canales and Djaló. Alongside them, five Bilbao Athletic youngsters were added by the conditioning coach: Santos, Monreal, Johaneko, Selton and Gift. The mix of experience and youth forms the backbone of Terzic’s project for the new campaign.

How was the technical staff completed?

The club confirmed Sebastian Geppert as assistant coach, Peter Gaydarov as head of training and transition at Lezama, doctor Gontzal Díaz‑Beitia and Óscar de Marcos as the liaison with the squad. These hires, together with four announced signings, complete the technical puzzle that will support Terzic throughout the 2026‑27 season.

What’s next for Athletic Bilbao?

Terzic’s official presentation is set for July 7 at 13:00 in San Mamés, where the manager is expected to hold a deeper dialogue with his players. Afterwards, the team will move to open‑field training and friendly matches that will shape their physical and tactical shape before LaLiga kicks off in August.