Terzic warns of rotations against Celta and confirms two major absences

Athletic Club

The Athletic Club are preparing important changes to their lineup for their clash with Celta de Vigo. Edin Terzic spoke at a press conference and one of the most interesting messages for fantasy managers came when he addressed the possible rotations in the starting XI.

The German coach acknowledged that he will make changes after a demanding stretch of fixtures and believes it is necessary to manage his players' minutes.

Terzic confirms rotations in the XI

Asked directly whether there will be changes to the lineup, Terzic left little doubt:

"Yes, for sure. We have a squad that is almost complete, only with Vivian and Prados injured. It's not a good idea to push the players to the limit. There will be changes".

The coach also recalled that he already made five changes to the starting XI against Barcelona compared to the team used against Sevilla, so everything points to him moving pieces again against Celta.

A particularly important warning for fantasy managers, as several regulars could start the match from the bench.

Vivian and Beñat Prados, Athletic's two absences

Terzic also provided a clear update on the state of his squad. Athletic have practically all their players available, with only Dani Vivian and Beñat Prados out injured.

The absence of both reduces some options in defense and midfield, although the coach has enough choices to carry out the rotations he has announced.

Unai Simón remains one of the leaders

The coach also had words for Unai Simón, whom he considers an important piece in the dressing room, although his intention is for the goalkeeper to have as little work as possible during the matches.

"Simón is a leader, but we want him to take part as little as possible. We want very high pressure".

Terzic wants Athletic to reduce the spaces between the lines and increase the pressure to avoid conceding as many chances, after failing to keep a clean sheet as often as he would have liked.

Gorosabel, Nico Serrano and Vencedor: silence on the market

The coach was also asked about the situation of Andoni Gorosabel, Nico Serrano and Unai Vencedor, three names linked to possible moves over the last few days of the transfer window.

Terzic avoided going into detail:

"The transfer market is something I have answered in several situations. These are topics I won't address because they are internal to the club".

So it will be necessary to wait to see whether any of these players ends up playing a key role in an operation before the window closes.

Athletic want to respond against Celta

After stringing together two matches without picking up a point, Terzic admits the team needs to improve, although he insists he is not worried about the situation.

The coach expects a Celta side with a lot of possession and a well-structured midfield, so he believes it is essential that his team can control the ball better and reduce the mistakes made in recent matchdays.

For fantasy managers, the clearest message from the press conference is this: Terzic has confirmed rotations. With Vivian and Prados ruled out and practically the entire squad available, getting Athletic's XI right this week will be especially difficult.