Edin Terzic is set to return to the dugout for the first time in two years after being named the new head coach of Athletic Bilbao. The announcement was made on Tuesday, with the German tactician scheduled to take over the La Liga side at the conclusion of the current season. Terzic's appointment ends a prolonged period of inactivity following his departure from Borussia Dortmund in 2024.
Since leaving Dortmund, Terzic remained out of the spotlight, deliberately stepping back from the game after a turbulent end to his tenure at Signal Iduna Park. The 42-year-old had led Dortmund to the Champions League final in 2024 but opted to leave the club amid internal disagreements. His time away was not without opportunities, however, as he received multiple offers from clubs across Europe.
Among the most notable prospects was a late-stage approach from AS Monaco. The Ligue 1 side aggressively pursued Terzic in early 2025 and negotiations progressed deep into the final hours of the transfer window. However, the deal collapsed at the eleventh hour due to unresolved contractual details, leaving Terzic to continue his sabbatical.
Athletic Bilbao's interest in Terzic materialized more recently, and the club moved swiftly to secure his services. The Basque outfit has struggled for consistency this season and views Terzic as the ideal candidate to implement a high-intensity, attacking style reminiscent of his Dortmund days. Terzic is known for his ability to develop young talent, a crucial trait given Athletic's policy of relying on homegrown players from the Basque region.
Terzic's coaching career has been on an upward trajectory since his time as an assistant at Dortmund. He initially took interim charge in 2020, leading the team to DFB-Pokal glory before later securing the permanent job. His tactical acumen and man-management skills earned him respect across Europe, making his extended absence from the touchline all the more surprising.
Now, with a fresh challenge at San Mamés, Terzic aims to rebuild his reputation and guide Athletic Bilbao back into European contention. The club currently sits mid-table but has shown flashes of potential under interim leadership. Terzic will have the summer to shape the squad according to his philosophy before fully taking the reins for the 2025-26 campaign.
The appointment has been met with cautious optimism by fans and pundits alike, as Terzic brings a blend of experience and ambition to a historic club. His first test will be to restore consistency and belief in a team that has lacked direction in recent months.
Based on reporting from Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continu.