The best coaches in the history of Athletic

Last update 10 December, 2024 by Alberto Llopis

He Athletic Club de Bilbao It is one of the historical pillars of Spanish football. Together with Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, is one of the three teams that have never been relegated from the First Division. But what makes the club unique is not only its permanence in the elite, but its exclusive philosophy: compete only with players of Basque roots or training.

Con 23 King's Cups, 8 Suspenders (seven in old format and one more recognized later) y 2 Spanish Super Cups, The lion showcases reflect a greatness built over more than a century of history. This legacy has been forged thanks to the work of iconic players and coaches who left an indelible mark on the club.. Here we explore the best technicians who marked an era at Athletic Club.

The Best Coaches of Athletic Bilbao

Frederick Pentland: The Father of Modern Athletics

Known as “Mr. Pentland”, The Englishman was the architect of Athletic's first great successes. He led the team in two stages (1921-1927 y 1929-1933), conquering 2 Suspenders y 5 King's Cups. Pentland not only brought titles, but also an innovative style for the time, based on touch and offensive play, which made him a key figure in the club's history.

Javier Clemente: The Architect of the Last Great Athletic

The Barakaldo coach is synonymous with success for Athletic. He practiced in 3 Stages as Athletic coach (1981-1986, 1990-1991 y 2005-06), Clement won 2 Suspenders row (1983 y 1984) and one King's Cup, achieving the historic double of 1984. His team combined defensive solidity with competitive character, becoming one of the most remembered by the fans. For the titles and for his philosophy on green.

Ernesto Valverde: The coach with the most games in the history of Athletic

Ernesto Valverde, nicknamed “Chingurri”, He is the coach with the most games directed in the history of Athletic Club, with more than 300 meetings in three different stages (2003-2005, 2013-2017, and from 2022). His greatest successes were the conquest of the Spain Supercup 2015, won brilliantly against FC Barcelona and the King's Cup 2024 conquered against Mallorca in Seville.

Fernando Daucik: The Double Champion of the 50

Fernando Daucik, born in Czechoslovakia, He is another of the coaches who left his mark in San Mamés. Under his direction (1954-1956), Athletic won a Liga y 2 King's Cups, achieving the double in 1956. Daucik brought discipline and efficiency, consolidating the team as a power over the years 50.

Fernando Daucik with hat in the center, It is one of the best coaches in the history of Athletic. Photo: Abc.es

Other iconic Athletic coaches

Marcelo Bielsa: Style Above All

Although he only managed Athletic for two seasons (2011-2013), he “Loco” Bielsa left an indelible legacy. Under his command, The team reached the final of the Europa League 2012 Yet the King's Cup of the same year. His aggressive style of play and his ability to get the best out of youngsters like Ander Herrera and Iker Muniain marked an exciting period., although it was missing to crown it with titles.

Koldo Aguirre: Tradition Made Coach

Koldo Aguirre, former Athletic player and coach, led the team between 1969 y 1973. During his mandate, Athletic reached the final of the King's Cup 1969, although they lost against Elche. Aguirre is remembered for his dedication to the club and for being one of the first coaches to put emphasis on the Lezama quarry as a pillar of the team..

Jupp Heynckes: Quality and Results

The German coach led Athletic in two periods (1992-1994 y 2001-2003). In its first stage, led the team to a remarkable fifth place in La Liga, ensuring qualification for European competitions. In its second stage, demonstrated his ability to keep the team competitive, standing out for its disciplined and tactical approach.

Joaquin Caparros: The Base of Modern Athletics

Caparrós arrived at Athletic in 2007 and he remained until 2011. Although he did not win titles, He was key in the development of young people like Iker Muniain and Javi Martínez. Under his direction, The team reached the final of the King's Cup 2009, beginning a stage of sporting renaissance.