Founded in 1898, Athletic Club is one of Spain's oldest football clubs. Alongside Real Madrid and Barcelona, they are one of only three clubs never relegated from La Liga. With 8 league titles and a record 24 Copa del Rey triumphs, their place in Spanish football history is assured.

Athletic's defining characteristic is their Basque-only policy — a globally unique philosophy that restricts squad selection to players of Basque heritage or those developed through Basque youth academies. In place since 1912, this policy stands as a remarkable counter-current to modern football's globalisation.

The new San Mames, completed in 2013 with a capacity of 53,289, inherited the spirit of the original "La Catedral" — one of Europe's most feared away grounds. The modern arena continues to serve as a shrine to Basque pride and identity.

Ernesto Valverde took charge for a third stint in 2022 and guided the team back to the Champions League. A former Athletic player, Valverde understands the club's philosophy intimately. He has announced his departure at the end of the 2025-26 season, marking the close of an era.

Aymeric Laporte returned from Al-Nassr in September 2025, while Nico Williams committed his future with a contract extension until 2035. The depth of Basque talent in the squad is at its highest level in recent memory.