Basque Players’ Controversial Chant Sparks Backlash from Spanish Clubs

Basque national team players face intense criticism from supporters of several Spanish clubs after joining in a controversial chant following an exhibition match.

Following a 1–0 victory over Venezuela at San Mamés on Saturday night, the 22 players called up by Jagoba Arrasate walked over to the stands. Alongside roughly 40,000 spectators, the squad participated in a coordinated chant and jump sequence featuring the phrase “español el que no bote!”

Videos of the post-match scenes spread quickly across social media platforms over the weekend, drawing immediate condemnation from supporters nationwide. Fans of Sevilla, Málaga, and Racing Club expressed the most vocal anger over the participation of players who represent their respective club sides each week.

Supporters of the affected clubs have spent recent days examining match footage frame by frame. Fans are attempting to verify whether specific squad members actively participated in the bouncing and chanting on the pitch or simply stood nearby.

The scrutiny directly targets four specific players who ply their trade outside the Basque Country in Spain’s top professional tiers. Jon Guridi plays for Sevilla, Einar Galilea represents Málaga, and both Iñigo Vicente and Asier Villalibre feature for Racing Club.

Arrasate’s 22-man roster for the fixture included representation from multiple domestic and international divisions. The complete list of called-up players spans clubs across La Liga, foreign leagues, and lower tiers.

The goalkeeping selection featured Aitor Fernández of Osasuna alongside Arsenal’s Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Defensive duties fell to Jon Pacheco of Real Sociedad, Einar Galilea of Málaga, Dani Vivian and Hugo Rincón of Athletic Club, Iñigo Arguibide and Aihen Muñoz, alongside Igor Zubeldia of Real Sociedad and Johaneko Louis-Jean of Athletic Club.

Midfield options included Beñat Turrientes of Real Sociedad, Pablo Ibáñez and Ander Guevara of Alavés, Jon Guridi of Sevilla, Mikel Jauregizar of Athletic Club, and Asier Osambela of Osasuna.

The forward line comprised Kike Barja of Osasuna, Iñigo Vicente and Asier Villalibre of Racing Club, Oihan Sancet of Athletic Club, Unai Gómez of Udinese, and Gaizka Larrazabal of Bolton.

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