Athletic Bilbao kick off pre-season with two key friendlies

Athletic Bilbao begin their second pre-season week on Monday with a dual focus: testing the squad and unveiling Edin Terzic’s project. The Lions, who rested yesterday, return to training today at 10:30 at Lezama. On Wednesday 16 July at 19:30, they face Derio in La Florida, followed by a trip to Leioa in Sarriena on Saturday 19 July at the same time. Both matches will serve as Terzic’s first real gauge of his squad.

Two Third RFEF sides with less preparation than Bilbao

Derio and Leioa, both currently in Tercera RFEF, arrive with far less match fitness than Athletic Bilbao. The Lions, already a week into work at Lezama, aim to build match sharpness and rotate players. Gorosabel is the first injury victim after pulling a muscle on Monday, the club confirmed. Pre-season has also been extended by LaLiga’s delayed start in Barcelona between 14–16 August due to international duty.

Terzic to debut his philosophy in front of fans

The La Florida and Sarriena clashes are the first chance for supporters to see Terzic in action. The German coach, appointed in June, can test his system with players like Iñaki Williams or Unai Simón. On Thursday, the team opens Lezama’s doors for a 11:00 open training, though access is limited to members. It will be the new staff’s first direct contact with the fans.

Six weeks until San Mamés league opener

Athletic Bilbao have six weeks to fine-tune before LaLiga kicks off. The clash with Sevilla in San Mamés is scheduled for 21–23 August, giving Terzic time to arrange more friendlies and iron out details. The lack of match fitness among Third RFEF opponents will ease adaptation, but the main goal remains assessing the squad’s fitness after the summer break.