Signed and sealed - Bilbao hire second German tactician in club's history

It's now official: Athletic Club are entering a new era.

Ernesto Valverde will complete the current season before handing over the reins to Edin Terzic, who has signed a two-year contract at San Mames.

Terzic arrives in Bilbao after two years out of management, following his departure from Borussia Dortmund. His final act there was the defeat in the UEFA Champions League final against Real Madrid, a painful end to an eventful spell.

Since leaving Dortmund, the 43-year-old turned down several offers, including one from AS Monaco, reportedly hoping for a move to the Premier League. When that call never came, he opted to return to the touchline in Spain.

Athletic moved decisively. Club president Jon Uriarte had already reached a verbal agreement with Terzic and chose to honour it despite other candidates being considered, including former Bilbao favourite Andoni Iraola.

Valverde's exit marks the end of another successful chapter. In his third spell at the club, he recently reached 500 matches in charge and guided Athletic to a Copa del Rey triumph two years ago. This season, however, has been less consistent, and with his contract expiring, both sides have opted for a respectful parting.

Terzic, meanwhile, arrives with a growing reputation shaped by both success and frustration: Dortmund cup victories, a surprise run to the Champions League final, and a league title narrowly missed on the final day.

Now, a new challenge awaits in Bilbao.