Athletic Bilbao: Squad List 2023/24 - Full Team & Details

Hey football fans! Are you ready to dive deep into Athletic Bilbao's squad for the 2023/24 season? Get ready to explore every player, their roles, and what they bring to the legendary Basque club. Let’s get started!

Current Squad Overview

In this section, we'll provide an overview of the current Athletic Bilbao squad. This includes key players, new signings, and notable departures. Understanding the dynamics of the team helps to appreciate their performance throughout the season.

Goalkeepers

When it comes to goalkeepers, Athletic Bilbao has a solid lineup. The responsibility of guarding the net primarily falls on the experienced shoulders of Unai Simón. Known for his incredible reflexes and command of the area, Simón is not just a shot-stopper but also a key figure in organizing the defense. His presence between the posts provides a sense of security that resonates throughout the team.

Alongside Simón, we have Julen Agirrezabala, a promising talent ready to step up whenever needed. Agirrezabala's agility and quick learning curve make him a reliable backup. Having a dependable second choice is crucial for maintaining high performance levels, especially during a long and demanding season where injuries and fatigue can take their toll.

Defenders

The defensive lineup is the backbone of any successful team, and Athletic Bilbao is no exception. The team boasts seasoned players like Yeray Álvarez and Dani Vivian, who form the core of the central defense. Yeray, known for his tactical awareness and strong tackling, brings a sense of stability. Meanwhile, Vivian complements him with his aerial prowess and ability to read the game, making them a formidable duo.

On the flanks, we have Óscar de Marcos and Yuri Berchiche providing crucial width and defensive cover. De Marcos, a versatile player, offers experience and consistency, while Yuri's energetic runs and defensive solidity make him a key asset on the left. Both full-backs contribute significantly to both defense and attack, ensuring a balanced approach.

Young talents like Aitor Paredes add depth to the defense. Paredes is seen as a player with high potential, offering fresh energy and a willingness to learn. His inclusion in the squad highlights the club's commitment to nurturing young Basque talent and integrating them into the first team.

Midfielders

Athletic Bilbao's midfield is where the magic happens. This is where creativity meets tenacity, and the team's rhythm is dictated. Key players like Ander Herrera and Oihan Sancet bring a blend of experience and flair. Herrera, known for his tactical intelligence and passing range, orchestrates the play, while Sancet adds dynamism with his forward runs and goal-scoring ability.

In the holding midfield role, Mikel Vesga provides crucial protection to the defense. Vesga's ability to break up plays, win tackles, and distribute the ball effectively makes him an indispensable part of the team. His presence allows the more creative midfielders to focus on their attacking duties.

Youngsters like Unai Gómez are also making their mark. Gómez's energy, vision, and willingness to take on defenders make him an exciting prospect for the future. His integration into the squad reflects the club's philosophy of promoting youth and giving them opportunities to shine.

Forwards

The attack is where Athletic Bilbao aims to strike fear into the hearts of their opponents. Spearheading the attack is Gorka Guruzeta, a striker known for his clinical finishing and aerial ability. Guruzeta's knack for being in the right place at the right time makes him a constant threat in the penalty area.

On the wings, we have the Williams brothers, Iñaki and Nico, bringing pace, skill, and unpredictability. Iñaki's blistering speed and powerful runs make him a nightmare for defenders, while Nico's dribbling skills and eye for goal add another dimension to the attack. Their synergy and understanding make them a potent force.

Álex Berenguer provides additional attacking options with his versatility and ability to play in multiple positions. Berenguer's creativity and work rate make him a valuable asset off the bench. His knack for scoring important goals adds depth to the attacking lineup.

Key Players to Watch

Alright, let's zoom in on some key players who are expected to shine this season. These are the guys who can turn a game on its head and keep fans on the edge of their seats!

Unai Simón

As we mentioned earlier, Unai Simón is a rock in goal. His shot-stopping ability is top-notch, and he brings a sense of calm to the entire team. Keep an eye on his distribution too; it's improved massively, making him a vital part of Bilbao's build-up play.

Iñaki Williams

Iñaki Williams is the heart and soul of Athletic's attack. His pace is electrifying, and he's always a threat to score or create something out of nothing. Plus, his work rate is phenomenal – he never stops running!

Oihan Sancet

Oihan Sancet is the creative spark in midfield. His vision and passing range are exceptional, and he has a knack for scoring important goals. He's definitely one to watch for those moments of brilliance.

New Signings and Departures

Now, let’s talk about the fresh faces and farewells. Knowing who's new and who's gone helps us understand how the team is evolving.

New Signings

While Athletic Bilbao typically doesn't make many big-money signings due to their Basque-only policy, they often promote talent from their academy. Any new additions will be highlighted here, focusing on what they bring to the team and how they fit into the existing setup.

Notable Departures

Departures are always a part of football. Any significant players who have left the club will be mentioned, along with an analysis of how their absence might affect the team's dynamics and performance. Did they leave a gap that needs filling? We'll explore that.

Tactical Approach

Let's dissect Athletic Bilbao's tactical approach for the 2023/24 season. How do they typically set up? What are their strengths and weaknesses? Understanding their strategy is key to appreciating their matches.

Typical Formation

Under their coach, the team usually adopts a 4-2-3-1 formation or a variation of it. This setup allows for a balance between defensive stability and attacking flair. The two holding midfielders provide cover, while the attacking midfielders and wingers support the lone striker.

Strengths

One of Athletic Bilbao's main strengths is their team spirit and unity. The Basque-only policy fosters a strong sense of identity and camaraderie. Tactically, they excel in high pressing and quick transitions, making them a tough team to break down.

Weaknesses

Like any team, Athletic Bilbao has its weaknesses. Sometimes, their reliance on homegrown talent can limit their squad depth compared to clubs with broader scouting networks. Breaking down tightly packed defenses can also be a challenge for them.

Season Expectations

What are the realistic expectations for Athletic Bilbao this season? Are they aiming for a European spot, or is consolidation the main goal? Let's analyze their chances.

League Performance

Given their squad and tactical setup, a realistic goal for Athletic Bilbao would be to secure a spot in the Europa League or Conference League. Consistency will be key, and they'll need to capitalize on their home form.

Cup Competitions

Athletic Bilbao has a rich history in the Copa del Rey. A strong run in the cup is always a priority, and they'll be aiming to go far and potentially lift the trophy.

Fan Sentiments

What do the fans think? Are they optimistic about the season ahead? What are their hopes and fears? Let's tap into the fan base and see what they're saying.

Optimism

Many fans are optimistic about the blend of youth and experience in the squad. The emergence of young talents like Unai Gómez has given them hope for the future.

Concerns

Some fans are concerned about the lack of depth in certain positions. Injuries to key players could derail their season, so staying healthy will be crucial.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a comprehensive look at Athletic Bilbao's squad for the 2023/24 season! With a blend of experienced veterans and exciting young talents, they're definitely a team to watch. Keep an eye on those key players, and let's see if they can achieve their goals this season. Aupa Athletic! I hope you guys enjoyed this breakdown, and keep following for more updates throughout the season!