The Athletic Club is gearing up for a hectic month ahead, facing seven high-profile matches between March 30 and April 23, 2025. Starting with Osasuna on March 30, the team aims to build on its strong performance after a brief respite, despite key absences in the roster. Following the recent break, Athletic will return to training today, March 24, with international players Unai Simón, Nico, Iñaki Williams, and Mikel Jauregizar absent. Their matchup against Osasuna is scheduled for 18:30 hours at San Mamés, where the team hopes to redeem past failures after being eliminated from the Copa del Rey by the same opponent earlier this season.
Later, the club will face Scottish giants Rangers in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa League, with the first leg to be played on April 10 and the second on April 17. It marks a momentous occasion for Athletic, returning to Ibrox Park 56 years after their last visit during the UEFA Cup, and the stakes are high as the players strive to emulate last year's triumph when they lifted the Copa del Rey for the first time in four decades.
The victory last April was a historic moment for the club, ending a 40-year wait for silverware, and catalyzed overwhelming celebrations in Bilbao, where over a million fans took to the streets to honor the achievement. Athletic's manager, Ernesto Valverde, emphasized the importance of every upcoming match, framing victories in these games not only as crucial for their position in La Liga but also as steps toward their potential Europa League success. Athletic’s performance in the Copa del Rey last season showcased their resilience, beating heavyweights such as Barcelona and Atlético Madrid before triumphing over RCD Mallorca in a dramatic penalty shootout in the final.
This year's squad boasts a dynamic attacking lineup spearheaded by stars Nico and Iñaki Williams, who are noted for their speed and technical flair. Another key player, Oihan Sancet, has emerged as a significant force this season, demonstrating his striking prowess in front of goal. Defensively, the club has one of Spain's strongest center-backs in Dani Vivian, whose athleticism and competitive nature make him a formidable opponent for any attacker.
In the midfield, players like Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta provide stability with their ball control and vision, while Mikel Vesga and Mikel Jauregizar offer tireless work rates, ensuring their team maintains pressure on opposing sides. The club's coach is optimistic but realistic about the challenges ahead, recognizing the need for balance between progress in the league and European competition.
Disappointments linger from recent disturbances during matches, most notably against AS Roma, which raised concerns about fan behavior. Despite Athletic's 3-1 victory against AS Roma securing a spot in the quarter-finals, incidents near San Mamés and in various parts of the city have drawn media attention, underscoring the ongoing tension surrounding football fandoms. Javier Sádaba, a noted philosopher and Athletic supporter, lamented the recent uncivil behavior and urged fans to channel their energy positively as the team prepares for such a high-stakes matchup against Rangers in the coming weeks.
As the matches approach, both fans and the team share aspirations for a successful campaign. The upcoming clash with Rayo Vallecano at San Mamés on April 6 also promises to be a test, as the team looks to maximize their home advantage. Athletic will follow this with a visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to challenge the reigning champions, Real Madrid, leading into the final leg of this intense series of fixtures.
The culmination of this month will see Athletic host UD Las Palmas on April 23, as both clubs focus on their respective aspirations for the season. With tensions high and stakes even higher, Athletic's players will need to summon their best performances as they aim to solidify their place in La Liga while chasing glory in Europe, capturing the attention and hearts of supporters across the continent.
