Athletic Bilbao president Uriarte details new season ambitions

Football
11 Aug 2022 • 2:00 PM MYT
Tribal Football
Tribal Football

Tribal Football covers news from the Premier League, LaLiga and Serie A

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Athletic Bilbao president Jon Uriarte says Europe is a target for the new season.

Uriarte, however, insists there is no demands aimed at coach Ernesto Valverde.

"The objective is clear: to take a step forward compared to last year and qualify for Europe. We want to clearly demonstrate our ambition," said Uriarte.

The Athletic Club president said the aim has been agreed upon by all involved, adding "it's not something that has been imposed by the Board of Directors".

He added: "It's a difficult aim, in a very competitive league and where all the teams have made great signings."

The president also stressed that this "an objective for everyone", urging Athletic fans to get behind the players and staff by making sure San Mamés is full to the brim every week.

"We can't forget the fans. We need them to push us more than ever, to show they're the best on the planet," he said. "That won't happen just because we have a new stand, which I'm sure will help, but it's a task for all Club Members and all Athleticzales."

He continued: "We need to fill San Mamés, leaving our membership cards with people we know if we can't attend or giving them out via the Club's official app."

Asked about Athletic's role in the Copa, Uriarte acknowledged that while it is "a very special competition for the Club and fans", LaLiga is a priority.

He said: "We've made it clear to the coaching staff and the squad that, although we need to remain very competitive in the Copa, we must take a step forward in LaLiga."