Ernesto Valverde, the head coach of Athletic Bilbao, confirmed that facing Arsenal in the opening match of the team's Champions League journey represents a real opportunity to test the team and continue its development, stressing that the European competition requires focus and extra effort.

Valverde said in the press conference held at San Mames Stadium before the match against Arsenal: "It is clear that we are very excited to participate in this competition, as it is the most important at the international club level. What we want is to compete, and we fully understand that the level of difficulty is much higher compared to the Europa League."

He added: "In the Champions League, nothing is held back; everyone plays at their full strength, the rhythm, the technical level, the tactical aspect, everything is at the highest level, it is the pinnacle of football."

Valverde clarified that the goal is not limited to mere participation, but to benefit from the European competition: "It is an opportunity to test ourselves, we hope that this experience will help us become better and compete more strongly."

Regarding the strength of Arsenal, he said: "Arsenal is one of the top contenders for the title, and they reached the semi-finals last season. The match will be filled with emotions, both in the stands and on the pitch, and that should be a motivation, not a burden."

He added: "The fans will come excited because we are starting our Champions League journey, and we are playing against a top-class opponent, and this is what Bilbao loves."

He talked about facing the London team previously in a friendly match: "Yes, we lost 3-0 in the preparation period, and they were clearly superior, but tomorrow's match is different; it is an official match, and we will be ready for it with full focus."

Valverde concluded his statements by saying: "We have to show who we are and prove that we can compete in Europe with Athletic's philosophy, despite all the challenges. We know that the Champions League is played at a higher pace and at a different level, and the opponents do not relent. We will not just celebrate being here, but we will be strong and take the match seriously in order to win."