De Marcos Returns to Athletic Bilbao as Technical Staff Member

De Marcos, a revered figure at Athletic Bilbao, is set to embark on a new chapter in his career, returning to the club as a member of the first-team technical staff. The move comes just over a year after he hung up his boots.

New Role in Player Development

The former Athletic captain will be responsible for player development and will serve as a crucial link between the dressing room and the coaching staff. His continued influence over his former teammates is expected to be a valuable asset. New head coach Edin Terzic specifically requested De Marcos’s inclusion, seeing him as an ideal candidate to support both individual and collective player growth, as well as foster a strong relationship with the squad.

A Storied Playing Career

De Marcos retired from professional football at the end of the 2024-25 season, concluding a distinguished 16-year career with Athletic Bilbao. During his tenure, he amassed 573 appearances, making him the second-highest capped player in the club’s history, behind only the legendary Jose Angel Iribar. He also celebrated three titles: one Copa del Rey in 2023-24 and two Supercopas in 2014-15 and 2020-21.

Beyond the statistics, De Marcos was a significant leader, having captained the side in the 2024-25 season. His departure from playing was marked by a heartfelt farewell at Lezama on May 22, 2025, where he expressed his gratitude for the club that had become his home. He described himself as a “romantic” of football and has consistently been involved in charitable work, including participation in “Laureus, Sport for good” campaigns.

First Coaching Experience

At 37 years old, this marks De Marcos’s first foray into coaching as an assistant. Several former Athletic players, such as Joseba Etxeberria and Carlos Gurpegi, have successfully transitioned into management roles after their playing days, suggesting a potential pathway for De Marcos. He maintained strong connections with many of his former teammates and the club throughout his retirement, often offering encouragement and advice.

Terzic’s Vision for the Squad

Edin Terzic’s appointment as head coach signals a new era for Athletic Bilbao, and his decision to bring De Marcos onto his staff highlights a strategic approach to player integration and development. Terzic believes De Marcos’s experience and connection to the club’s ethos will be instrumental in nurturing talent and maintaining a cohesive team environment.

De Marcos’s return is seen as a significant boost for Athletic Bilbao, leveraging the experience and leadership of a club icon in a new capacity. His role is expected to have a tangible impact on the development of current players and the overall team dynamics.

Key facts
| Detail | Information |
|—|—|
| Player Name | De Marcos |
| Club | Athletic Bilbao |
| New Role | Technical Staff Member (Player Development) |
| Previous Role | Player (Captain) |
| Debut as Coach | First coaching experience |

The integration of De Marcos into the coaching staff underscores Athletic Bilbao’s commitment to valuing its club legends and utilizing their experience to foster future success. His deep understanding of the club’s culture and his rapport with the players are anticipated to be invaluable assets for Terzic’s project.

Source: Mundo Deportivo Futbol – https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/athletic-bilbao/20260620/1004197133/regreso-referente-athletic.html

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