Athletic Bilbao head coach Valverde was interviewed today and talked about Laporte, who finally joined the team.

Laporte has completed joint training with the club today. The central defender has contacted locker room members for the first time after officially confirming his signing for 1+3 years yesterday.

Valverde did not put the new player on the roster when talking about the pre-match press conference against Alaves at home. Laporte has not participated in the official match since April, and the coach confirmed that he had formulated a special recovery plan for him to regain the pace of the game, while praising the level of the player who has played for the club for six seasons.

Valverde said: "This is crucial to us. He is an international player, both during this period, during Manchester City and in the national team. We have high hopes for him and he has shown a deep commitment to Biba. In the absence of Jerey, it is perfect to bring players of this level. I have worked with him for four years and know his potential and look forward to him to bring great help."