Terzic debuts in a derby: “Goals are in the same place”

Athletic Club host Alavés this Saturday in Eusebio Terzic’s first derby as head coach. In his pre-match comments, the manager stressed that while the game carries emotion, the tactical approach must come first: “I’m aware of the emotional side of the derby, but we have to be prepared. Even if it’s a derby, the goals are in the same place and they’re the same size.” As MARCA reports, Terzic also insisted there are no excuses to be made—what matters is producing results on the pitch: “We don’t want differences between the rival and the place where we play. There’s an opportunity and what matters is to win or lose.”

Emotion, but with a plan

Terzic framed the week as part of the early stages of his work, saying: “These are my first three months, not my last three months.” He acknowledged that the first two matches didn’t leave the team happy, though results and performance improved afterward. The focus for him now is on turning those internal improvements into points in the derby.

Alavés, and the break

On Alavés, Terzic underlined their structure and attacking habits: “They have solid foundations, good structure and a good coach. They’re effective and they like making a lot of crosses.” The idea, he said, is to center everything on Athletic’s own game, keeping Alavés away from their area to be the better side.

Rotation and the striker role

The coach avoided predicting the starting XI the day before the match: “I don’t like talking about the lineup the day before.” He also spoke about Maroan, explaining that he wants to rely on him and the other options up front after the striker’s injury affected his availability last season: “Now he’s working very hard and is once again prepared to play.” Terzic concluded that he trusts “Maroan, Guruzeta and Iñaki as the number 9” and expects there to be rotation during the match.