Marca: Athletic Bilbao’s Versatile Johanneco Seamlessly Adapts to Multiple Positions and Earns Coach’s Trust

According to Marca, 22-year-old French defender Johanneco has been one of Athletic Bilbao’s biggest surprises at the start of this season. Terzic has placed great trust in the player, frequently deploying him in different positions. In an interview, the player said he feels extremely proud to represent Athletic Bilbao.

“I am very proud, and believe I can bring value to the team. The coach told me to play freely and always be ready to get on the pitch because I can handle several different positions,” Johanneco said.

Looking back on his career, he came through Bordeaux’s system, was loaned to Lugo, and only later joined Athletic Bilbao. “Those days were difficult, but every player’s career goes through challenges. At that time, Bordeaux had too many full-backs, and I needed playing opportunities, so I chose to go on loan to Lugo. I only focused on the present and did not think too far ahead. Looking back at the path I have taken, I feel very satisfied.”

His first-team debut came at Camp Nou against Barcelona. “The coach told me it would not be an easy match and that I would face some of the world’s top wingers. He told me to enjoy the game because my performances in pre-season had been very good.”

“No matter which position I am assigned, I will give 100 percent, although I personally feel most comfortable at left-back,” Johanneco admitted. Before the summer, he learned that he would join the first team for pre-season preparations. Sporting director Mikel delivered the good news to him, and his family continued to encourage him to keep training. He also discussed his biggest impression after moving from a Segunda División youth team to La Liga: “The intensity of La Liga matches is very high, and everything moves at a very fast pace.”

“I am very satisfied to have achieved one of my life goals, but I must continue working hard,” Johanneco said. He believes Terzic has brought a philosophy of high intensity, high running and high pressing to the team, from which everyone has benefited, and that the club now has strong ambitions. He also recalled playing youth matches at San Mames ten years ago, and now feels anticipation and a sense of honor when stepping onto the pitch there as a first-team player.

Athletic Bilbao have already secured two consecutive victories, and their next opponent is Elche, who have yet to record a win. Johanneco warned the team against becoming overconfident: “We must be careful of excessive confidence and maintain a high level of focus. Two victories are far from enough. On Saturday, we will be fully focused and give our all.”

Speaking about the team atmosphere, he was delighted to train alongside three World Cup-winning teammates, while goalkeeper Simon was also shortlisted for the annual best goalkeeper award. “We are very proud to share a dressing room with these players. They are worth learning from and will help us continue to improve.”