Valverde: We Have To Enjoy The Moment

Valverde has been delighted with his team’s form in recent weeks, and hopes they can continue the good work in coming weeks.

“We have to enjoy the moment we are passing through, but at the same time have to make sure it lasts,” he explained.

But the coach is well aware that Athletic won’t be easy opponents, as Joaquin Caparros’ side have already shown signs of their potential this season.

Still he feels that the first leg of the tie in San Mames won’t decide anything:

“It won’t be decisive, not for them nor for us. The return leg will be the decisive match.”

Valverde expects to return from Bilbao with a positive result, which will move them closer towards qualification to the semifinals.

Espanyol are now undefeated in their last fourteen matches, both in the league and the cup, and their morale is higher than ever.

“We are obviously going through a good moment,” stated Valverde.

“But I would like to be the best team at the end, which is the time that really counts, but we have to take advantage of this favourable situation, to stay at the top.

“We have to stretch this moment as far as possible,” he concluded.