Terzic wants Athletic fully alert for Athletic Vs Elche at San Mamés, even after the lift of beating Atlético. The coach said Elche have not won yet, but their brave style means Athletic cannot afford to treat this as a simple follow-up to a good result.
The match comes with Athletic preparing for their third home game of the season, and Terzic said he has real respect for Elche despite their lack of victories. He also offered condolences for the death of the club's number 1 member and said he hopes the team can produce a good match in his memory, adding another layer of emotion to a fixture already carrying pressure.
Terzic’s message was clear: momentum matters, but it does not replace discipline. Athletic lost to Sevilla before beating Atlético, and he said the next step is to keep the same energy without assuming the standings will do the work for them. He said the team must be very prepared because Elche arrive with nothing to lose and enough bravery to trouble sides that relax.
He was just as direct about the mood inside the club. Terzic said there is a great atmosphere around the team and the fans, that he is very happy, and that he feels satisfied with the way everyone has welcomed him and the coaching staff. He said he has found a fantastic place to work and live, and that Athletic want to create unique moments that keep building the energy around the club.
That connection with the stands has already left an impression on him. Terzic said he noticed the response after the previous matches and wants to give supporters something back, because their backing will matter when the difficult moments arrive. He called the fans unique, a comment that fits the tone around San Mamés before another home test.
There were also practical questions hanging over the week. Terzic said Vivian is working very hard and should return in about 14 days, while Guruzeta and Canales are in the gym and on the pitch and are expected to rejoin squad training on Monday or Tuesday. The staff will then decide whether either player can be available for Wednesday’s match against Levante.
He also backed Unai Simón for recognition as the world’s best goalkeeper, saying he deserves the nomination and hoping he wins the Guante de Oro. And when asked about Iñaki Williams, Terzic said he has spent many years playing both as a winger and as a second striker, and remains capable of filling either role. For Athletic, though, the immediate task is simpler than any award or selection debate: stay disciplined, respect Elche, and turn a promising spell into something more lasting.
