The former Borussia Dortmund coach took charge of Athletic during the summer after Ernesto Valverde stepped down following the conclusion of his fourth season in his third spell at the club.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Athletic endured an inconsistent 2025-26 campaign and finished 12th in La Liga. However, Terzic has been encouraged by the team\u2019s preparations for the new season, with the club suffering just one defeat during pre-season.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe team, based on quality, is ready to play in Europe. If we deserve it, it will be because we work harder and better, and that will prepare us. Europe is one of our objectives,\u201d he said a week before Athletic opens its league campaign at home to Sevilla, as quoted by Xinhua.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Terzic, 43, has also been impressed by the strong bond between Athletic and its supporters since his arrival in Bilbao. The German believes the unique connection between the club and its fan base can provide an additional source of motivation for his players.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI see the connection people have with the club, and you feel the pride. It doesn\u2019t matter how old you are, whether you\u2019re a man, woman, boy or girl, everyone feels a connection to the club, and that makes me very proud to coach this team,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Terzic, 43, has also been impressed by the strong bond between Athletic and its supporters since his arrival in Bilbao. The German believes the unique connection between the club and its fan base can provide an additional source of motivation for his players.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIn football, everyone talks about pressure, but there\u2019s pressure in everything in life. I don\u2019t feel that external pressure; the pressure is internal. Nobody can put more pressure on me than I put on myself,\u201d Terzic said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n