The La Liga season has begun, and coach Ernesto Valverde continues to fine-tune his team's pieces to achieve the goals set. With a promising start, Valverde has shown confidence in his young players and their ability to adapt to the competitive pace of the league. However, injuries and tactical adjustments have marked the early stages of the season.
The Athletic manager has stressed the importance of staying focused and taking advantage of the opportunities that the calendar offers. In the pre-season friendlies, Valverde has had to deal with some setbacks, including injuries to key players. These difficulties, although expected at this stage of the year, have forced the manager to explore different options in his starting eleven.
Álvaro Djalo's debut and Valverde's expectations
Álvaro Djaló , one of Athletic's emerging talents, suffered an injury in the sixth pre-season friendly against Aston Villa. This injury prevented him from participating in the matches against Getafe and Barça, generating some uncertainty about his physical condition. However, the young extrem made his La Liga debut against Valencia, showing glimpses of his quality and ability to break through.
Álvaro Djaló, who grew up in the Bilbao neighbourhood of Otxarkoaga from the age of three months, expressed his excitement at making his debut with Athletic. “I was really looking forward to this moment, to being able to play for the club of my dreams,” said the player after the match. Djaló also highlighted the importance of the three points earned, showing his commitment to the team's objectives and the influence of the fans on his personal motivation.
Ernesto Valverde and the management of young talent at Athletic
Ernesto Valverde has shown on many occasions his ability to manage young talent and adapt it to the demands of the Primera División. In the case of Djaló, Valverde has known how to manage his progression, allowing him gradual minutes to avoid physical setbacks. “I have felt good, although I am lacking a bit of rhythm,” said Djaló, who was replaced by Nico Williams in the second half.
The coach also highlighted the difference for a youngster competing in La Liga compared to other contexts, such as the Basque national team. Valverde understands that every minute is valuable for the development of these players and that the fans play a crucial role in their performance. Djaló's debut and his performance against Valencia are indicative of his potential and the confidence that Valverde places in him.