Terzic sets the standard ahead of Athletic’s return to the league

Terzic has set targets for his team for the period that begins at Vallecas. Athletic are resting this weekend before returning to the league, which paused for national-team commitments. Their return to training is to include instructions from Terzic, while the team continues to await Nico Williams’s recovery.

The schedule ahead explains the importance of that preparation. Before the mid-November FIFA window, Athletic will play six league matches and one cup tie. Their listed league opponents are Rayo, Valencia, Levante, Getafe, Real and Osasuna. The cup draw is scheduled for Monday.

Terzic’s remarks also indicate the standards he wants to see in the team’s play. Looking back at the first half at Anoeta, he admitted: “We weren’t happy with the first half. Last week, in an internal match, there was more intensity. The first half at Anoeta was not what we wanted. We need to be at full energy and intensity.”

He also spoke about the missed chances in the last two league matches and Maroan’s goal: “After the last two league games, in which we missed a lot of chances, I’ll be satisfied with every goal we score. It’s important that Maroan scored, because it will give him more confidence. He is working very well in every training session.” The upcoming run will therefore test both the targets Terzic has set and the team’s ability to rediscover the intensity he is demanding.