Athletic Club has confirmed the return of Jesús Areso to the starting eleven under the direction of Edin Terzic, after a last season that did not meet expectations following his signing for 12 million euros from Osasuna. The right-back has regained his physical shape and gained weight, which is reflected in his performance on the field, and has once again been a key piece in the team's defense.
On the last day of the qualifying phase, Areso played four of the six games and started four of them, in addition to starting the game against Vallecas that was interrupted by falling paper objects and plastic balls. In an interview in Lezama, the player admitted that the previous year he was not at 100% physically and that, during the summer, he dedicated himself to analyzing his weak points to return to the club with more confidence and in better shape.
The full-back has emphasized that his physical change is evident and that he has focused on what he can control, although he recognizes that some decisions depend on the coach. Areso also recalled his presentation in the San Mamés press room, where he stated that his adaptation would be quick, something that was not initially fulfilled. The player admitted to having underestimated the difficulty of the transition and that the summer in Pamplona had been turbulent, which cost him time to adjust to Athletic's style.
In the locker room, Areso has approached Oscar de Marcos, who acts as a liaison with the coaching staff. The right-back has said that he considers De Marcos as a reference and that he values his advice, which has allowed him to improve his performance. Terzic has implemented an offensive system that allows the full-backs to advance to the center of the field when the team has the ball, which increases the width of the attacking zone.
Competition at the right-back position remains high, with Hugo Rincón, Johaneko and Frenchman Yuri also competing for the position. Terzic has maintained the rotation of the four players, allowing Areso to continue gaining minutes and consolidate his place in the eleven. With the season underway, Athletic Club seeks to consolidate its position in the table and Areso's return to his best level is an important step in that objective.