Athletic Bilbao has officially announced the extension of coach Ernesto Valverde's contract for an additional year, allowing him to lead the team until June 30, 2026. This decision comes as a culmination of the successes Valverde has achieved since returning to coach the team in the summer of 2022.

Athletic Bilbao currently occupies the fourth position in the Spanish league standings, three points behind Atletico Madrid in third place, confirming their early qualification for the Champions League next season.

The team has also performed strongly in the Europa League, reaching the semifinals before losing to Manchester United, in addition to securing participation in the Spanish Super Cup.

The club's official statement read: "The legend of Ernesto Valverde continues with Athletic Bilbao, as the coach has agreed to lead the team in his tenth season, following an exceptional season that saw them finish fourth in the league and qualify for the Champions League and the Super Cup."

The contract was signed at San Mamés Stadium in the presence of the club president and the general director of football, Mikel Gonzalez.

Extending Valverde's contract represents an important step in enhancing the team's stability and continuing to achieve accomplishments in the coming seasons.