Athletic Bilbao appoint Edin Terzic as new head coach on a two-year deal until 2028, replacing Ernesto Valverde. Former Borussia Dortmund manager brings youth development focus and attacking football philosophy to La Liga side.
A major managerial change has been set in motion at Athletic Bilbao, with the club confirming the appointment of Edin Terzic as their new first-team coach for the next two seasons. The 43-year-old tactician will officially take charge at the end of the current campaign, replacing long-serving boss Ernesto Valverde.
The announcement was made on Tuesday through the club’s official communication channels, confirming that Terzic has signed a contract running until June 2028. His arrival marks a new chapter for the Basque side, which is looking to build on its strong footballing identity rooted in local talent development and attacking play.
Terzic returns to frontline coaching after a two-season hiatus following his departure from Borussia Dortmund. During his tenure in Germany, he established himself as a promising manager capable of blending youth development with competitive ambition. His most notable achievement came in the 2022–23 season when he guided Dortmund to the brink of the Bundesliga title, narrowly missing out to Bayern Munich on goal difference in a dramatic finish.
In the following campaign, Terzic led Dortmund to the UEFA Champions League final, showcasing his tactical adaptability and ability to compete at the highest level. Although the German side fell 2-0 to Real Madrid in the final, the run significantly boosted his reputation across European football.
Athletic Bilbao’s decision to appoint Terzic is seen as a strategic move aligned with the club’s long-standing philosophy. Known for promoting players from the Basque region, the club values coaches who can nurture young talent while maintaining a competitive edge. Terzic’s background in Dortmund’s youth system and his emphasis on dynamic, attacking football made him an attractive candidate.
Before his success in Germany, Terzic gained valuable experience working under Slaven Bilic at both Besiktas and West Ham United. These roles helped him develop a diverse tactical perspective and familiarity with different footballing cultures.
Meanwhile, Valverde’s departure signals the end of an era. The experienced Spanish coach, who managed the club across three separate spells, recently celebrated his 500th match in charge during a 4-2 victory over Deportivo Alaves. His decision not to extend his tenure opened the door for a fresh managerial direction.
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Currently sitting eighth in the La Liga standings, Athletic Bilbao still have four crucial matches remaining this season. The club has emphasized that its immediate focus remains on finishing the campaign strongly before transitioning to the new leadership.
Supporters are expected to welcome Terzic formally at the start of the new season, where expectations will be high for him to build a competitive squad capable of challenging domestically and in European competitions. His appointment signals ambition and a willingness to evolve while staying true to the club’s unique identity.
