Beñat San José calls Athletic clash a “special” Basque match

“It’s a special match because it’s Basque,” Beñat San José said ahead of the meeting between Rayo Vallecano and Athletic. The coach spoke to the media before the eighth round and explained what makes the fixture distinctive for him.

San José said he feels affection for Basque teams and described Athletic as a “spectacular” club with an identity that is “unique in the world.” He also praised how quickly Terzic has adapted to the team, while acknowledging the work Ernesto Valverde had done before him. “We’re really looking forward to playing this match,” he added, stressing the need to keep the ball well and apply intense pressure.

The return to Vallecas is another source of excitement. “I’m eager to come back to Vallecas and play my first official match there,” he said, pointing to the supporters’ backing and their ability to make life difficult for opponents. He called the fixture a major challenge.

The coach also said the extended break from competition—three weeks without playing—was an unusual situation. His team, he explained, had tried to make the most of the time by working on technical aspects and bringing in players who had proved useful to the group.

As for the team’s form, San José believes there is still significant room for improvement. He acknowledged that his side had conceded too many goals compared with the chances opponents had created, and took responsibility for what he called glaring errors. “We have to put that right,” he stressed, adding that his focus was on getting the best out of the team rather than setting a ceiling in a league he considers highly competitive.

Asked about off-field issues that could affect the players, he said it was his responsibility to keep the team fully focused. He also defended everyone’s right to express themselves, including the supporters. His wish, he concluded, was to give the fans a victory.

Finally, discussing Raúl Martín Presa, San José said his main point of contact at the club was David, who is there every day, and that he only crosses paths with the president occasionally. He said his role was to coach, not to manage or serve as an executive.