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Probably no one will forget how the mighty Manchester United was eliminated from the so-called "second-rate" Europa League by a non-elite Spanish team. The match at the visitors' fortress - Old Trafford ended 2-3 in favor of the hosts, but they were fortunate not to concede another 3 or 4 goals, and even had a chance to score from the penalty spot. At home, the Bilbao team finished their hard work and eliminated the English champions from the Europa League. Furthermore, this non-elite Spanish team should soon make its way to the semifinals of the same league. All they need at the San Mames stadium is not to suffer humiliation against the less prestigious German Schalke club.
In fact, the Bilbao Athletic club has a rich history and deep traditions. Perhaps the number of titles does not compare to the collections of Barca or Real, but this club, unlike others, is full of charm. Bilbao Athletic was founded in 1898 (for comparison: Barca - 1899, Real - 1902) and in 1902 won the Copa del Rey trophy for the first time. Additionally, this wonderful team has been playing in the highest division of Spanish football - La Liga - since its establishment without any interruptions. Only three clubs in the league's history have never fallen to a lower level in the Spanish football system. Among them is Bilbao Athletic (the other two are Real and Barcelona). However, Bilbao stands out from these clubs due to its transfer policy. All players in the team are Basques, either with Basque roots or coming from the historical Basque lands. And such a policy is very commendable and praiseworthy. This club will never distort the player market, buy players for astronomical sums, and otherwise ruin football. In modern football, this is a very rare phenomenon. Even in a country like Lithuania, which can boast of its rich football history, such things do not happen, and no one makes much effort to nurture Lithuanian Messis. Nevertheless, some Brazilian may find his way to the elite club "Bangos" in Gargzdai to play top-level football.
Knowing that Arab sheikhs are increasingly getting involved in football, drawing millions out of their pockets, a club like Bilbao Athletic is truly a rarity. Even Barcelona, which likes to boast that they spend only what they earn, adorns their blaugranas with Qatar Foundation logos. Not to mention Manchester City, whose money bag never seems to empty. Thanks to those who came up with the Financial Fair Play rule - perhaps football will return to decency.
As money increasingly controls football, it is wonderful to see a club that nurtures such values among wealthy oil tycoons. It is strange that Bilbao not only manages to stay in the heights of La Liga but also occasionally annoys the European giants. Manchester United eliminated, Schalke on the brink of defeat. The Copa del Rey final awaits against Barca. It should be a great sight, especially knowing that for some matches Biscay teams coach Marcelo Bielsa can prepare his team. With 38 matches in the championship, the players still lack stamina. The bench is short, and the players on the bench are not equivalent replacements for the regulars. However, when playing against this team, problems can always arise. Remembering the match with Manchester United, Old Trafford could have been a complete humiliation. The Bilbao players did not take advantage of numerous opportunities. Although Manchester United did not consider the Europa League tournament very prestigious, they still have to contend with the blue and white neighbors in the Premier League. Bilbao, on the other hand, it was rumored that Biscay teams would no longer persist in the Spanish Primera Liga, as Champions League spots are no longer attainable, a place in the Europa League is secured, and such an opportunity to showcase oneself in Europe does not come very often. However, all this would be a belittlement of Bilbao team's victory, which they do not deserve. They deserve only the most sincere praises and the most beautiful words for this victory and beautiful game. And not just for that. The entire club deserves to be praised for holding on to wonderful traditions, nurturing their values, and not flowing with the mainstream.
An amazing club.
