Ernesto Valverde has claimed that Athletic Bilbao are “obliged” to beat Getafe on Sunday as they look to lift themselves off the bottom of La Liga.
The euphoria of Los Leones’ Supercopa triumph and qualification for the Europa League group stage has been quickly overshadowed by defeats in their first two League games of the season, and the Coach concedes “there’s already a lot at stake” for his side.
“I don’t know if it’s out of anxiety or need, but we’re obliged to win either way,” he said at a Press conference.
“The only way we can rid ourselves of any anxiety is by beating another team in the same situation as us. It’s only the third matchday, but there’s already a lot at stake.
“[Raul Garcia] has been very well received by the squad, and they’ve already begun looking to him.
“He was a little stressed with the transfer and presentation last week, but he’s been looser and integrated into the squad this week.
“He is very competitive and has goals in him. He is a also team player, hardworking, fits into the team’s defensive dynamics and, scoring aside, and offers us many tactical solutions, although we plan to use him centrally.”
