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
Speaking in his post-match press conference 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.
It was a cagey start in Bilbao, but Athletic broke their shackles just before the half hour mark. Oihan Sancet collected the ball 30 yards out before driving to the edge of the penalty area, from where he curled an unstoppable effort past David Soria.
Getafe, who could only name five outfield substitutes, rallied after the half time interval, and they would find an equaliser. Luis Milla’s corner was headed home by Christantus Uche, who was playing in the third tier of Spanish football last season.
Nico Williams was called on from the bench by Ernesto Valverde, but despite this, they could not find a winner. It’s a disappointing start for Athletic Club, but for Getafe, they will be delighted with a point.
