Ernesto Valverde justifies decision not to start with Nico Williams for Athletic Club’s La Liga opener

Athletic Club were heavy favourites to win the opening match of the 2024-25 La Liga season, as they hosted a depleted Getafe side at San Mames. However, they failed to secure the three points, after being held to a 1-1 draw.

Naturally, one of the major talking points post-match was Ernesto Valverde’s decision not to start Nico Williams. The Euro 2024 winner, who only returned to Athletic Club training earlier this month, started as a substitute, before being brought on soon after Getafe scored their equaliser. He showed flashes of quality during his cameo, but it wasn’t enough to help Athletic find a winner.

Speaking in his post-match press conference (via Marca), Valverde justified his decision not to start Williams against Getafe.

“I didn’t want him to play too much as a precaution.”

Valverde also gave plenty of credit to Jose Bordalas’ Getafe side for their performance during the 90 minutes.

“We have to give credit to Getafe, who are a difficult team to pass and complicated. Last year we won there 0-2, but at San Mames we didn’t manage to win. The low pace of play is something that they handle well and play with a type of thing that makes them a little ugly, but it is a team that plays well and is continuous.

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