Valverde gushed, "I was impressed by the sheer determination my team showed from the get-go. They never let up."

"This team has what it takes to reach the final. Today was a special day for us, and our fans were behind us every step of the way. That support makes us a formidable force."

"We knew playing at San Mamés would give us an edge. We needed to set the pace, and we did just that. It was a tough game, but we managed to snatch the lead and hold onto it."

Now, Athletic face Manchester United in the semis, and Valverde isn't hiding his concerns. "It's going to be a tough match, especially with the second leg away at Old Trafford. They're eyeing the Champions League, so it's a different ball game for us. But we're ready to give it our all."}