Valverde agrees Athletic exit
Friday, March 4, 2005
Article summary
Ernesto Valverde is to step down as Athletic Bilbao coach on 30 June after opting not to renew his contract.
Article body
Ernesto Valverde is to step down as Athletic Bilbao coach on 30 June after opting not to renew his contract for next season.
Amicable departure
The 41-year-old, formerly a player with the Primera División club, said: "I have reached all of my objectives with the team. My relationship with the board of directors has been good throughout." He added that he had not been offered another job.
UEFA Cup campaign
Valverde has been in charge since the summer of 2003, and last season finished fifth to earn a UEFA Cup campaign that ended on Sunday against FK Austria Wien. This term they lie tenth in the Primera División after Wednesday's loss to Málaga CF. They are also in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey.