Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde has welcomed their Copa del Rey draw with Barcelona.

Athletic will host the quarterfinal next week.

Valverde said: “It's a classic match against a tough opponent. We're lucky enough to play the match at home in front of our fans. We're excited and have high hopes.

"It will be a special and difficult tie for both sides. But first, we have to play Valencia."

On the weekend clash with Los Che, Valverde added: "LaLiga is our absolute priority right now and then later we'll think about the Copa.

"The match against Valencia at San Mames was really difficult and now they're in a good moment, having won three LaLiga games in a row. They're a young and talented team getting better and the season goes on."