Ernesto Valverde has urged his Athletic Bilbao players to “believe in miracles” ahead of Saturday’s Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.
The Basques lie just 90 minutes away from a first trophy in 31 years, and the Coach is remaining defiant in his side’s ability to defy the odds, despite the match being played at Camp Nou – the home of their fellow finalists.
“We must minimise our mistakes and maximise theirs because this is a final,” he said at a Press conference.
“We have to squeeze every last drop from our chances. For us, this is a unique opportunity and we want to give joy to our fans.
“When [Lionel] Messi is playing well he’s difficult to stop, but we must try. He always appears at the key moments in a match.
“[Aymeric] Laporte and [Xabier] Etxeita are fine. I have everyone available except [Oscar] de Marcos and [Iker] Muniain.
“It’s one of the most difficult games in Athletic’s history, but the team have always risen to the occasion during times like this. I have faith in the team and we must believe in miracles.
“There’s no comparison between winning a title with Athletic and another team. Being in a final with Athletic is special. You only have to take a tour of Bilbao [to realise this].”
