Jauregizar: "We're all very proud to play for Athletic"

Young central midfielder Mikel Jauregizar admits he is excited to see what the future holds for Athletic Club, saying the current crop of talented players coming through are making their dreams come true when they put on the red and white stripes.

The 21-year-old, who established himself in the first team last season, is keen to keep progressing after signing a long-term contract and taking over the no.18 shirt from former captain Oscar de Marcos.

"The contracts we've signed show how proud we are to play for Athletic, what we believe in, and how excited we are about this project. I hope no one ever wants to leave this club. We have a great squad with world-class players," Jauregizar said at a press conference on Wednesday morning.

"On a personal level, I couldn't ask for more. I've renewed my contract with my boyhood club until 2031, and Óscar de Marcos has given me the number 18 shirt.

"It's very special because Oscar's been a role model for me, and before him [Carlos] Gurpegi too. He was already a role model when I watched him from the stands and on television, and even more so when I shared a dressing room with him. I told him the shirt was too important for me to take on, but he said I had to take it, so I listened.

"I'll keep working as hard as ever and try to give my all on the pitch. This is the dream of all young people in the Basque Country, and to make it come true by representing this badge and shirt is incredible.

"We're excited. It's going to be a wonderful but demanding season."

The new no.18 was pleased to see the Lions get their 2025/26 season off to a winning start, insisting that the tough pre-season helped them be ready for the Sevilla match.

He said: “The pre-season wasn't so good, but I think those matches also helped us prepare. We've had a good start to the season and we're all very happy.

"The win means a lot and gives us the confidence, strength and energy to go all out against Rayo Vallecano now. We'll try to get the three points again.

"Rayo are a very tough opponent who play very well. They're in European competition for a reason, and they'll make things very difficult for us, just like last year."

Even with 59 senior matches under his belt, the playmaker recognises that he is still "very young" and has "a lot of room for improvement".

He added: "I have more experience now. I was able to enjoy a lot of playing time last term. Let's see if things turn out the same or better this season.

"The coach asks me to move the ball from side to side, to be myself, to steal possession and to get the team playing."