Former players from Athletic Club and Real Sociedad gathered at Padelko in Iurreta for a padel tournament organized by the Athletic Foundation, sharing laughs and stories ahead of Sunday’s Basque derby at San Mamés.
Padel Courts in Iurreta Host Pre-Derby Reunion
The morning gathering brought together veterans from both sides of the historic rivalry to compete in a different sport before the weekend fixture. Participants walked the grounds reminiscing about past encounters on the pitch in Bilbao. Organizers from the Athletic Foundation arranged the event to bridge the divide between former competitors, setting a relaxed tone days before the two sides meet on the pitch.
Markel Susaeta Assesses Squads and Unai Simón Recognition
Markel Susaeta highlighted the recent trajectory of both clubs during the gathering. “Athletic has recovered good sensations, and of Real, if I had to highlight a player, it would be Mikel Oyarzabal,” Susaeta said, noting that it is always pleasant to reunite with old friends on the circuit. He also addressed Unai Simón’s recent nomination as the best goalkeeper in the world. “It is a totally deserved award, I had the luck of sharing a dressing room with him, and as a goalkeeper and person he is top-tier,” Susaeta added, praising the goalkeeper’s recent acceptance speech and values.
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Xabi Prieto Balances Real Sociedad Confidence with Derby Realities
Xabi Prieto emphasized the strength of his former side’s current run of form while acknowledging the unique challenge of playing away at San Mamés. “We arrive in a good moment, but we know that in derbies the home team is usually the favorite and it is going to be a difficult match,” Prieto stated. The former player noted that the squad is hunting for a balance between creating chances and shutting down opposition attacks, pointing to four consecutive league victories as a source of confidence for the dressing room.
Fernando Llorente Praises Young Academy Talents and Club Ambitions
Fernando Llorente pointed to the emergence of young club prospects breaking into the senior squad, including Christian Imga, Txus Vizcay, and Aritz Conde. “I would recommend that they enjoy it, today’s youngsters come through differently, pressure influences them less and players with a lot of personality are coming out,” Llorente observed. The former player also noted the importance of Athletic closing the gap on the league table and re-entering European qualification spots, alongside echoing praise for Unai Simón.
Alberto de la Bella and Carlos Gurpegui Weigh In on Equality and Squad Depth
Alberto de la Bella described the fixture as an open contest despite current league positions. “Having the warmth of your people helps, but once the referee blows the whistle to start the match, it equalizes,” de la Bella noted. Carlos Gurpegui echoed those sentiments regarding squad momentum, praising the influx of young talent stepping up from Bilbao Athletic following recent victories in league and cup competitions.
Aitor López Rekarte Points to Marginal Margins at San Mamés
Aitor López Rekarte suggested that small details will dictate the outcome on Sunday evening. “Real might be a tiny notch above, but like any derby and playing in San Mamés I think the atmosphere will be fantastic,” López Rekarte said, declining to offer a definitive match prediction while emphasizing the importance of sportsmanship and the historic atmosphere surrounding the clash.
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