The Athletic Club has chosen Edin Terzic as the man to lead the team into a new era, with the German coach signing a two-year agreement to become the club’s next head coach. The 43-year-old is set to be officially introduced by the Basque outfit at the beginning of next season, taking over after Ernesto Valverde’s departure this summer.
Valverde had already announced in March that he would step down following four seasons in charge, prompting speculation over who would fill the vacancy. Athletic has now settled on Terzic, ending that uncertainty ahead of the upcoming campaign.
Iraola links end as club make decision
Former Athletic player Andoni Iraola had been strongly connected with a return to Bilbao after confirming he would leave Bournemouth at the end of the season. Despite that speculation, the Spanish club has instead moved for Terzic.
By appointing the ex-Borussia Dortmund boss, Athletic have opted for a coach with experience outside Spain, signaling a different direction as they prepare for life after Valverde.
Dortmund achievements shaped Terzic’s rise
Terzic arrives after two separate spells in charge of Borussia Dortmund, where he enjoyed notable moments of success. During his time in Germany, he guided Dortmund to the German Cup in 2021, came close to winning the Bundesliga title in 2023, and led the side to the Champions League final in 2024.
His second period with Dortmund ended soon after the Wembley defeat to Real Madrid, where his team lost 2-0. Following that match, Terzic chose to step away and had not returned to management until accepting Athletic’s offer.
Career path before Bilbao move
Before becoming a prominent figure at Dortmund, Terzic worked alongside Slaven Bilic as an assistant coach. That role took him to Besiktas in Turkey and later to West Ham in the Premier League, helping build his experience across different leagues.
Now, with Athletic sitting eighth in La Liga and four matches remaining this season, Terzic will eventually step in with the task of guiding the club forward once the current campaign concludes.