Athletic Bilbao president Josu Urrutia has confirmed that Marcelo Bielsa will not be in charge of the first team come next season.

The 57-year-old is out of contract next month and the Basque outfit have chosen to end their two-year association with the Argentine coach.

Urrutia acknowledged that some fans may be upset to see Bielsa leave San Mames, but he insisted that the decision is in the club's best interests.

"Yesterday, in the final board meeting of the season, we decided unanimously to not propose that Marcelo Bielsa continue as coach," Urrutia told a press conference.

"I understand that there are fans that wanted Bielsa to continue and it is right to recognise his work, commitment, dedication and what he has contributed, but this is what is best for Athletic."

Bielsa led Bilbao to the Europa League final last season.

Written by
Michael Penkman