Aitor Paredes: "Proud of the entire journey"

Athletic Club centre-back Aitor Paredes became the latest Lion to be given a debut by Ernesto Valverde when he came on as a late substitute in the Matchday 3 fixture against Cádiz CF.

So far the defender has been involved in three clashes, the most recent against UD Almería at San Mamés. Despite the exciting times, player is keeping his feet firmly on the ground."Playing at San Mames is such a privilege. I have to keep doing what has brought me here, working hard on a daily basis," he said.

Paredes, who hails from the town of Arrigorriaga, on the outskirts of Bilbao, never forgets how far he has come. He is a grateful lad, who appreciates his roots. The headquarters of Etorkizun KT, the local club he started at as a six-year-old, now proudly displays the Athletic jersey he gave them as a gift.

"I've made a lot of sacrifices. But that which seemed so far off has come my way. I'm proud of the entire journey to get here," Paredes says.

Aitor often comes to Etorkizun's 7-a-side football pitch to greet his neighbours, reminisce about old times and serve as a role model for the young children who train there every day.

Javier Ibarrondo, who has done an invaluable job at the helm of the 40-year-old club, which also produced forward Guillermo Fernández - another "Etorki" product to play for Athletic - was full of praise for the Athletic newest Lion: "Aitor's debut is a source of great satisfaction, we are talking about a person who is appreciative and of integrity."

Paredes has been at Lezama since the under-11s, wearing the captain's armband often in the different age groups. He was champion at the 2018 Mediterranean Games along with Oihan Sancet. His potential has always been there and now he knows his mission is to do his bit as a centre-back or full-back and to grow from day to day with the same spirit and determination he had all those years ago at "Etorki".