Basconia, Athletic Bilbao's second team, has started its preseason at Lezama with a new coach on the bench. Adrián Esteve, 34, takes over after Bittor Llopis was promoted to Bilbao Athletic. Esteve arrives after a standout season leading the Athletic Bilbao Juvenile team in the División de Honor, solidifying his rise within the club's youth structure.
What changes are there in the team?
Basconia's squad consists of 26 players, including midfielder Mikel Zearreta from Antiguoko, who is on trial. However, midfielder Xanti Oyharçabal is temporarily out as he is called up to the United States national team. The team will compete again in the Segunda RFEF, but this time they will face teams from Galicia, Asturias, and Cantabria due to the restructuring of the groups.
Who makes up the squad?
Goalkeepers include Tasio Juanena and Zugatz Gallastegi. Defenders are Urko Liceaga, Oier Unamuno, Alex Carril, Pablo Martínez, Testimony Onukwuru, Aitor León, Ilyas El Arbaoui, and Mikel Urrestarazu. Midfielders include Eneko Ellakuria, Ander Ezpeleta, Iñigo Sainz de Leciñana, Iker Quintero, Egoitz Hernández, and Danel Narbarte. Forwards include Christian Imga, Asier Torres, Diego Fernández, Manasse Kiese, Alain Cobos, Aitor Torrico, Marcos Goñi, and Xabi Gómez.
What does this mean for Athletic Bilbao?
Adrián Esteve's promotion to Basconia's bench reflects Athletic Bilbao's continuity in its training policy. The club's youth system continues to bet on young and promising coaches like Esteve, who have already proven their worth in lower categories. This move also allows the club to maintain consistency in playing style across all its teams.
