Iñaki Williams will guide the squad into the 2025–2026 season in the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey
After veteran Óscar de Marcos retired at the end of the 2024–25 season, Iñaki Williams was officially designated Athletic club’s new captain. In the midst of moving tributes, DeMarcos gave Williams his captain’s armband during the ceremonial handover, which took place at San Mamés on May 25, 2025, following Athletic’s final La Liga game.
Since making his professional debut in 2014, Williams has played at Athletic, where he has amassed over 470 appearances and over 110 goals. Being a one-club mainstay is reflected in his appointment to captain.
Williams, who is well-known for his dependability (including a streak of 251 straight La Liga appearances), involvement in the community, and humanitarian endeavors, epitomizes Athletic’s basic principles.
Williams, who is already vice-captain, is a smooth succession from DeMarcos into what looks to be a new age, particularly as Athletic gets ready for a run in the Champions League.
Williams will guide the squad into the 2025–2026 season in the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey.
His experience, loyalty, and leadership qualities will be pivotal in guiding both seasoned veterans and emerging talents like his brother Nico and other youth players.
As the first black captain in the club’s storied history, Williams’ rise represents Athletic’s evolving identity while staying true to its Basque roots.
On 25 May 2025, Athletic Bilbao’s captaincy baton officially passed from Óscar de Marcos to Iñaki Williams. With a decade of outstanding service, unwavering dedication, and charismatic leadership, Williams is now set to lead the Basque giants into a new chapter.
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