Valverde Announces Athletic Bilbao Squad for Copa del Rey Semifinal Amid Significant Absences

Ernesto Valverde, Athletic Bilbao's coach, has announced his 22-man squad for the Copa del Rey semifinal clash against Real Sociedad. The squad includes several reserve team players due to significant absences from the first team, with Julen Padilla confirmed to start in goal.

Valverde explained that Yuri Berchiche will be unavailable for the match due to overload, while Álex Berenguer is also out. Oihan Sancet's absence was confirmed after he failed his latest fitness test, and Dani Vivian is sidelined with a muscle issue and a virus affecting his condition. Additionally, Aitor Paredes is suspended.

Ernesto Valverde stated, "Yuri does not have a muscle tear, and we hope to have him back soon, but it's difficult for him to play tomorrow because we have to be careful due to overload, and we'll see if we can recover him for Sunday. Berenguer will not be available. Oihan Sancet completed part of yesterday's training, and Vivian, in addition to the problem he had, has also contracted a virus."

As a result of these absences, Iker Monreal, a young defender from the reserve team, will play at center-back, while Donabitía, also from the reserve squad, will take a place on the bench.

Valverde confirmed, "Padilla will play again tomorrow."

Valverde also acknowledged the strength of their opponent, adding, "We must be careful with them because they are a great team, and we also want to present a good version of ourselves. It's a beautiful semifinal for everyone, two derbies that carry a lot of tension and a lot of hope for the fans to reach the final."

This match will mark Iker Monreal's second appearance for Athletic Bilbao's first team, underscoring the reliance on young talent given the current circumstances facing the squad.