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Athletic Bilbao boss sends Manchester United warning ahead of pre-season friendly

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Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde has hinted his side will treat this afternoon's friendly like a competitive game as they prepare for a challenging start to their new season.

The Spanish side kick off their 2023/2024 La Liga campaign against Real Madrid next weekend. This afternoon's clash with United at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin represents their final pre-season friendly.

Erik ten Hag named his strongest eleven for Saturday's 3-1 win over RC Lens at Old Trafford, and the Dutchman hinted that a second-string side will head to Dublin.

They look set to face a tough challenge, with Valverde eyeing today's friendly as a benchmark for their season. Want to join our MUFC Pro club for a totally ad-free version of the MEN’s Man United app packed with premium features? Click here ALSO READ: United have a new first-team starter vs Wolves after Lens win "This is a strong game against a very high-level opponent," he said. "What we hope is to compete at our best level, to be able to stand up to them and, of course, win.

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