Julián Included in Matchday Squad for Bilbao

The coach has thrown his support behind Julián, confirming the forward will travel with the squad to Bilbao and be included in the matchday group.

“He’s training very well, he’ll be called up tomorrow, he’ll be part of the group that travels to Bilbao and we’re hoping for the best from him and all his teammates,” he told reporters, making it clear the door is wide open for the player to respond on the pitch.

Then he stepped away from tactics and selection and went straight into philosophy.

“I’m very clear about it: for me, life is full of opportunities. And Julián now has an opportunity to get things right. We often spend our time judging, and we need to focus on doing it less and learning more.”

No public scolding. No distancing. Instead, a challenge.

“I hope this has been a learning experience for him. And that he’s happy, and as Futre, whom I send a hug to, told him yesterday in a nice video, that he does it by scoring goals.”

Bilbao awaits. So does Julián’s answer.