Edin Terzic Set to Take Over as Athletic Bilbao Manager

Edin Terzic is on the verge of becoming the next manager of Athletic Bilbao, marking a significant move for both the coach and the historic Basque club. Sources from prominent Basque newspapers Deia and El Correo, along with trusted transfer specialist Matteo Moretto, confirm that an agreement is nearly finalized for the former Borussia Dortmund boss to take charge at San Mamés.

Edin Terzic Nears Athletic Bilbao Appointment

Athletic Bilbao has identified Edin Terzic as the ideal successor to Ernesto Valverde, who remains a club legend after three spells and nearly a decade at the helm. Valverde, a former Bilbao player and youth coach, will leave at the end of the current season as his contract expires. His tenure has solidified Bilbao’s competitive edge, but the club is ready for a new chapter under Terzic’s leadership.

Negotiations Accelerate Amid Summer Managerial Changes

Talks between Athletic Bilbao and Terzic have been ongoing since late March, as the club evaluated various candidates. Among the alternatives was Andoni Iraola, the former Bilbao mainstay and current AFC Bournemouth manager. Iraola, linked to several European clubs including Chelsea, ultimately became unavailable as his next move remains undecided. This opened the door for Edin Terzic, who had also been on Chelsea’s shortlist, to make the move to Spain.

Terzic’s International Coaching Journey

Terzic, who started his coaching career in Borussia Dortmund’s youth ranks, has gathered experience across Europe. After working as Slaven Bilic’s assistant at Besiktas and West Ham United, he returned to Dortmund, where he eventually became head coach and then technical director. His most notable achievement was leading Dortmund to the 2024 UEFA Champions League final and coming close to a Bundesliga title. Since leaving Dortmund in the summer of 2024, Terzic has been out of management, making this anticipated deal with Athletic Bilbao a pivotal return.

What Terzic Brings to Athletic Bilbao

Edin Terzic’s approach is known for its tactical flexibility and ability to inspire young talent—qualities that align well with Athletic Bilbao’s philosophy of nurturing homegrown players. The Basque side, sitting ninth in La Liga with six matches remaining, is just three points off a European spot. Terzic’s appointment is viewed as a fresh injection of ideas as the club seeks to reclaim its place among Spain’s elite.

Respecting Valverde’s Legacy

Out of respect for Ernesto Valverde and to maintain stability during the season’s crucial run-in, Athletic Bilbao will delay any formal announcement regarding Terzic. The team remains focused on securing European qualification, a goal that would provide a strong foundation for Terzic’s tenure.

Bilbao’s Recent Performance and Future Prospects

Athletic Bilbao’s league finishes over the past five years reflect a club consistently competing in the upper half of La Liga:

• 2025/26 (after 32 matches): 9th place
• 2024/25: 4th place
• 2023/24: 5th place
• 2022/23: 8th place
• 2021/22: 8th place

With the arrival of Edin Terzic, there is cautious optimism that the team can push even higher, especially with a manager whose modern, energetic football aligns with the club’s ambitions and tradition.

Opinion: A Bold New Direction for Bilbao

In my view, the imminent appointment of Edin Terzic signals a bold and progressive direction for Athletic Bilbao. While Valverde’s shoes are large to fill, Terzic’s proven track record with youth development and on the European stage makes him a compelling choice. If Bilbao can provide him with stability and the freedom to implement his ideas, supporters have reason to look forward to an exciting new era at San Mamés.

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