Athletic Club has officially confirmed the appointment of former Borussia Dortmund manager Edin Terzić as their new head coach, starting from the 2026/27 season.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, ends months of speculation over who would succeed the legendary Ernesto Valverde, who is set to step down at the end of the current campaign after a historic tenure.
The Details of the Deal
Terzić arrives in Bilbao with a reputation for high-intensity football and a proven track record in knockout competitions:
- Contract Length: The 43-year-old German tactician has signed a two-year deal (with some reports suggesting an option until 2028).
- The Transition: He will officially take the reins once the 2025/26 La Liga season concludes. Until then, Valverde will oversee the final four matches as Athletic pushes for a European qualification spot.
- First Presentation: Terzić is expected to be formally presented at San Mamés in early July, ahead of the pre-season tour.
Why Terzić?
Athletic’s board reportedly chose Terzić due to his tactical flexibility and his experience managing a “club of the people” at Dortmund:
- Dortmund Success: He famously led Dortmund to the DFB-Pokal (German Cup) title in 2021 and a dramatic run to the 2024 UEFA Champions League Final, where they finished as runners-up to Real Madrid.
- Cultural Fit: Analysts suggest his deep connection to Dortmund’s passionate fan base makes him an ideal fit for the unique, community-driven culture of Athletic Club and its cantera policy.
- The “Iraola” Alternative: While many fans hoped for the return of Andoni Iraola, the former captain’s commitment to his current project in England opened the door for Terzić to become one of the few non-Spanish managers in the club’s recent history.
