Terzic keeps Athletic backing despite poor run

Athletic Club

The Athletic Club suffered a 3-1 defeat against Levante UD, raising concern around the Basque side. Managed by Edin Terzic, the team has gone four LaLiga matches without a win, has nine points to their name, and are two points from the relegation places.

Despite this delicate sporting situation, the coach's position at the club would not be in question. According to the analysis of Iñigo Markinez, head of sports at Radio Bilbao, no internal debate has been opened at Athletic about the possible sacking of the German manager.

Markinez draws a distinction between the logical worry over results and an institutional decision about the dugout. Based on his information, Terzic retains the backing of the president, Jon Uriarte, the sporting directorate and the squad. He also points out that his appointment was a major bet by the current board.

That said, Athletic needs to respond as soon as possible to prevent the atmosphere from getting worse. The team still has to finish their match in Vallecas, a situation that could change their position in the table if they win, but recent form does not suggest calm.

Painful defeat and next test against Getafe

At the Ciutat de València, Athletic were heavily affected by the two first-half goals from Roger Brugué and by the sending off of Aymeric Laporte, which made any comeback attempt much harder. After the match, Yeray was self-critical about the team's performance and pointed to the mistakes made in both areas as the key to the result.

The next fixture, on Sunday against Getafe, is set to be an important chance to gauge the response from the rojiblancos. Markinez warns that another disappointment could increase the grumbling in the stands, although he insists that this would not automatically put Terzic's job in danger.