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Los Leones: The unique story of Athletic Club Bilbao
Los Leones: The Unique Story of Athletic Club Bilbao is the first English language book to tell the incredible story of Athletic Club Bilbao.
Foreword by Athletic Club legend, ‘The Butcher of Bilbao’ Andoni Goikoetxea.
Founded in 1898, Athletic Club quickly grew to become the most successful team in Spain. This groundbreaking English language study of the team provides the historical, political, and social context of what makes the team so special, including:
Key moments from Athletic Club’s history such as their formation and success in the 20th century, the unique Basque derby, their most famous victories, and the history behind the beloved San Mamés stadium
An examination of the relationship between the Basque region and Spain, and the resulting international intrigue around Athletic Club’s self-imposed Basque-only transfer policy
Exclusive interviews with club legends including José Ángel Iribar, Javier Clemente, Julen Guerrero, and Joseba Etxeberria
An explanation of La Cantera – the fascinating Basque-only philosophy and the importance of the Lezama training complex that produces tomorrow’s stars
Now told for the first time in English, this look at Athletic Club’s history, success and fierce commitment to identity is a must-read for fans who can finally peer into the remarkable world of the Basque team.
Foreword by Athletic Club legend, ‘The Butcher of Bilbao’ Andoni Goikoetxea.
Founded in 1898, Athletic Club quickly grew to become the most successful team in Spain. This groundbreaking English language study of the team provides the historical, political, and social context of what makes the team so special, including:
Key moments from Athletic Club’s history such as their formation and success in the 20th century, the unique Basque derby, their most famous victories, and the history behind the beloved San Mamés stadium
An examination of the relationship between the Basque region and Spain, and the resulting international intrigue around Athletic Club’s self-imposed Basque-only transfer policy
Exclusive interviews with club legends including José Ángel Iribar, Javier Clemente, Julen Guerrero, and Joseba Etxeberria
An explanation of La Cantera – the fascinating Basque-only philosophy and the importance of the Lezama training complex that produces tomorrow’s stars
Now told for the first time in English, this look at Athletic Club’s history, success and fierce commitment to identity is a must-read for fans who can finally peer into the remarkable world of the Basque team.
352 pages, Paperback
Published March 4, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
July 3, 2024
Really interesting book about a unique club in today’s football landscape. I like how it doesn’t just gush over Athletic Bilbao’s transfer policy and presents a balanced argument, including the poaching of basque players from other clubs.
December 22, 2024
A captivating dive into one of the most extraordinary football clubs in the world. This book masterfully captures the essence of Athletic Club Bilbao, a team that has remained steadfast in its values while competing at the highest level of Spanish football.
What sets this book apart is its ability to blend history, culture, and passion into a compelling narrative. The author delves into the club's unique philosophy of fielding only players of Basque origin, showcasing the deep connection between the team and its community.
The book is rich in anecdotes and historical insights, celebrating the club’s legendary players, unforgettable moments, and unwavering commitment to tradition. Whether you're a lifelong supporter of Athletic Club, a football enthusiast, or someone interested in cultural stories, Los Leones will leave you inspired and in awe of this remarkable institution.
What sets this book apart is its ability to blend history, culture, and passion into a compelling narrative. The author delves into the club's unique philosophy of fielding only players of Basque origin, showcasing the deep connection between the team and its community.
The book is rich in anecdotes and historical insights, celebrating the club’s legendary players, unforgettable moments, and unwavering commitment to tradition. Whether you're a lifelong supporter of Athletic Club, a football enthusiast, or someone interested in cultural stories, Los Leones will leave you inspired and in awe of this remarkable institution.
September 12, 2024
This book is a real education about one of world football’s most interesting clubs. Apart from the Basque-only selection policy, I knew very little about Athletic. It turns out, there’s a lot more than their transfer policy that makes them unique.
From their English origins to their glory days and now the challenge of maintaining their place in an increasingly money-orientated football ecosystem, there’s a lot of ground covered.
Thoroughly researched, I suspect the author was challenged on what to exclude rather than what to include. It is well balanced and doesn’t shy away from scrutiny from some of Athletic’s biggest detractors.
The rhythm of the read was also enjoyable, with relatively short chapters keeping the pace throughout.
From their English origins to their glory days and now the challenge of maintaining their place in an increasingly money-orientated football ecosystem, there’s a lot of ground covered.
Thoroughly researched, I suspect the author was challenged on what to exclude rather than what to include. It is well balanced and doesn’t shy away from scrutiny from some of Athletic’s biggest detractors.
The rhythm of the read was also enjoyable, with relatively short chapters keeping the pace throughout.
January 20, 2025
Pretty interesting book and does well to include rivals’ opinions, too, on the club to give a more balanced view.
Really like how the author adds his interviewee’s actions with their hands/ face when recounting a story. Brings it to life more.
Negatives: wish there was far more about the modern team. Muniain is a treasure and there’s barely any mention of him. Also wanted more on the journey from academy to first team.
Adds adjectives before some people’s names, which feels a bit childish and unprofessional, given that this book does lean into an academic history of the club. For example, we know Franco was bad, and we don’t need an author to tell us that by referring to his “short-man syndrome”
Really like how the author adds his interviewee’s actions with their hands/ face when recounting a story. Brings it to life more.
Negatives: wish there was far more about the modern team. Muniain is a treasure and there’s barely any mention of him. Also wanted more on the journey from academy to first team.
Adds adjectives before some people’s names, which feels a bit childish and unprofessional, given that this book does lean into an academic history of the club. For example, we know Franco was bad, and we don’t need an author to tell us that by referring to his “short-man syndrome”
June 1, 2024
4.5 stars.
Well written and easy to read. I absolutely flew through this book. I wish it was longer! A great introductory look at one of the most unique sport clubs in the world. Athletic have always been the Spanish team I root for, but it was always difficult to find good info on them being from Spain with not much English media out there about them, so this is will likely be a good reference even years from now.
Some things probably could have been expanded on further, I think, as a lot of the chapters are quite short, but you get the gist of it. You can tell a lot of work and love went into this book. Recommended not just for Athleticzales, but for all football fans in general.
Well written and easy to read. I absolutely flew through this book. I wish it was longer! A great introductory look at one of the most unique sport clubs in the world. Athletic have always been the Spanish team I root for, but it was always difficult to find good info on them being from Spain with not much English media out there about them, so this is will likely be a good reference even years from now.
Some things probably could have been expanded on further, I think, as a lot of the chapters are quite short, but you get the gist of it. You can tell a lot of work and love went into this book. Recommended not just for Athleticzales, but for all football fans in general.
July 16, 2024
A thorough research replete with a wide variety of historical details, interviews and anecdotes,
Christopher Evans successfully presents Athletic's history and its significance within the Basque society, football and the Spanish politics. The history of Los Leones is one of binary oppositions: blending the insular Basque identity of the club (within the region and the country) with anglophilia and internationalism, the 'inferiority' against the 'superiority' of the famous representatives of Spanish football. The reader is given the opportunity throughout the pages to start a journey from the past to the present.
Christopher Evans successfully presents Athletic's history and its significance within the Basque society, football and the Spanish politics. The history of Los Leones is one of binary oppositions: blending the insular Basque identity of the club (within the region and the country) with anglophilia and internationalism, the 'inferiority' against the 'superiority' of the famous representatives of Spanish football. The reader is given the opportunity throughout the pages to start a journey from the past to the present.
December 4, 2024
Best book written in English about the history of a club unique in the world. Very complete, touches on every aspect that has to be taken into account for a real understanding of the phenomenon that Athletic Bilbao is. Football, culture, history, society, heritage... A must in the library of every sports lover.
May 15, 2024
A superb history of Athletic Club, including chapters on the foundation, the effect of the Civil War, as well chapter's focused on individual managers, players and matches and the cantera system. Published just weeks before the club won their first major trophy in 40 years, so it is very timely.
May 13, 2024
This is the book on Athletic that we needed. Chris covered everything involved with the club. This book will win awards. Everyone needs this book in their library.
June 1, 2024
A fantastic read! I can't recommend highly enough! Superbly researched and wonderfully written. Not just a football book - I learnt so much about Basque history, culture and politics. Brilliant.
June 3, 2024
Superb read! This is not just a football book. I learnt so much about Athletic and the Basque Country. Would highly recommend.
December 22, 2024
Loved this! So interesting and informative. The writer clearly has a passion for the club and its history. A fascinating read id recommend to anyone!
January 3, 2025
Great book, full of history and insights on Athletic and the Basque people.
May 3, 2025
Great book, great interviews and covers a lot whilst remaining interesting
August 19, 2025
A clear, well written and interesting history of a football club that believes they are unique (don't they all) but, all the same, worth your time if you are interested in football
January 27, 2025
Absolutely brilliant book, loved every page. Nearly made me change from a Barca fan to an Atleti one. Get it, it’s ace
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews