Athletic Club

Athletic Club, commonly known as Athletic Bilbao, is a professional football club based in Bilbao, Spain, founded in 1898. The club has a rich history, being one of the founding members of La Liga in 1929 and has maintained a strong identity centered around the Basque-only player policy, which limits its roster to those native to the Basque Country and players trained in the region. Athletic Club has achieved significant success, winning the Copa del Rey 23 times, making it one of the most successful clubs in this prestigious tournament.

Throughout the 20th century, Athletic Club established itself as a formidable presence in Spanish football, securing numerous domestic titles and fostering a fierce rivalry with Real Sociedad, known as the Basque Derby. The club experienced its golden era in the 1920s and 1930s, capturing multiple league and cup titles, which helped solidify its reputation as a mainstay of Spanish football. Additionally, Athletic Club's commitment to its regional roots and the promotion of local talent has fostered a deep connection with its fanbase, contributing to its rich cultural heritage.

In recent seasons, Athletic Club has shown varying levels of performance; during the 2023-24 season, the team finished 5th in La Liga, showcasing competitive capabilities with 19 wins. The following season, 2024-25, again produced a strong finish, placing 4th with 19 wins, but a subsequent downturn was experienced in the 2025-26 season, where the club struggled to find form, finishing in 29th place with only 2 wins. Despite these fluctuations, the club remains a significant entity in Spanish football with ongoing aspirations for success.