Terzic faces first European test as Athletic manager

Athletic head to Marseille this afternoon for their first preseason friendly (17:30 CET), marking Edin Terzic's first European challenge as the Basque club's manager. The German coach is still without internationals Unai Simón, Laporte, Nico Williams and Vivian after the squad enjoyed five days' rest following their game against Burgos and underwent physical assessments upon returning to training.

Terzic has called up 25 players to face Olympique de Marseille, who also begin the season under a new coach with Bruno Génésio in charge. The French side, which finished fifth in Ligue 1 and secured a Europa League spot, have won three and lost one in preseason. This clash provides a solid test ahead of Athletic's league opener against Sevilla at San Mamés in two weeks.

Defensively, Padilla will start in goal with Unai Simón absent, with the right-back spot contested between Hugo Rincón and Areso. The central midfield duo remains competitive with options including Beñat Prados, Galarreta, Jauregizar and Gerenabarrena. In attack, Guruzeta looks certain to start, while the wings will see competition between experienced players and emerging talents.