Athletic’s league debut left a bitter taste in the red and white squad. The lions did more than enough to beat Mallorca in their visit to San Mamés, but they were unable to beat the goal which was well defended by Rajkovic. Valverde’s bold and determined commitment at the start of his third spell on the Atletico bench was not confirmed on the scoreboard.
The Gasteiz coach pulled the expectation on the goal and defense level. With Unai Simón recovering and Iñigo Martínez out due to injury, there is no doubt who will play both in goal and in defense.
The surprises were recorded from the midfield forward. Vesga was placed at the forefront of the defense. On his side, according to the words expressed by the rojiblanco coach at the end of the match, Sancet should be, but he almost always plays near the same or similar height as Muniain and Iñaki Williams and Berenguer, the two Athletic wingers. Villaliber, in this way, served as a center forward.
Athletic were masters of the situation almost from kick-off against Mallorca with a defense of five, an average of four and a striker. Opportunities are not lacking for the lions, but a goal is. Nothing new in Bilbao’s team for several seasons at this point.
Valverde, aware of the situation, quit from the bench before the first hour of the match. Zarraga and Raúl García, aiming for the starters, are their first bets. Sancet and Villaliber, were sacrificed.
from change to change
Athletic’s pressure began to be more effective from then on. Mallorca, who didn’t make much of an effort offensively, had no choice but to tighten their teeth at the back. The lions, despite everything, were still unable to break down the vermilion wall.
The second maneuver in Valverde’s march was to bring in Nico Williams and Guruzeta at the same time. Berenguer and Muniain were replaced this time. Significant.
These changes were accompanied by their corresponding tactical changes. The eldest of the Williams therefore continued to exercise on the left wing with his brother attached to the right. The acquired Guruzeta, for his part, comes to act as a second striker, but has the freedom of action to drop a few meters or exchange positions with Raúl García. Didn’t work either.
The fifth and final substitution is the most important of all. Newcomer Malcom replaced Iñaki Williams a breather from the end, despite pressing the need to open the can. The boy showed self-confidence, but the goal resisted. One more.
Aguirre came through against a brave Athletic, pressing and innocently facing the rival frame. For the test it did not stay. For goal acquisition, on the other hand, yes. Nothing new on the horizon.
Source: La Verdad
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
