Athletic Bilbao have confirmed that German coach Edin Terzić will take over as head coach of their men's first team at the end of the season. Terzić has signed a contract until 30 June 2028. Ernesto Valverde is departing after reaching his 500th game in charge.
Athletic Bilbao announced on Monday that Edin Terzić has agreed to become the new head coach for the next two seasons. The 43-year-old German replaces Ernesto Valverde, who informed the club in March of his decision to stand down. An official statement from Athletic read: “Edin Terzić has agreed to become head coach of Athletic Club’s men’s first team for the next two seasons, signing a contract until 30 June 2028.” Terzić will be officially presented at the start of the new season, with the club's current focus on their four remaining matches this season. The move had been widely expected following talks with Terzić. Terzić previously coached Borussia Dortmund in two stints, where he won the 2021 DFB-Pokal, narrowly missed the 2023 Bundesliga title, and led the team to the 2024 Champions League final. Before his head coaching role at Dortmund, he worked in the club's academy and football operations, and served as an assistant coach at West Ham and Besiktas. Valverde leaves as a club hero after three spells at San Mames. He guided Athletic to the 2015/16 Spanish Super Cup and the 2023/24 Copa del Rey. The team recently won 4-2 at Alaves with two late goals from Nico Williams, keeping their Conference League qualification hopes alive—that victory marked Valverde's 500th game in charge.