When Futbol was Futbol — by Iñaki Ugalde

Noong Ang Futbol ay Futbol — ni Iñaki Ugalde

Ayon sa Mundodeportivo.

Bakit mahalaga ito

Ang mga alaala ni José Julián Lertxundi tungkol sa pagkuha kay Jupp Heynckes ay nagbibigay-diin sa mga pagbabago sa transfer market at sa pag-unlad ng La Liga football. Ang mga dating paraan ng pagkuha ng mga coach at manlalaro ay nagpapakita ng isang mas simpleng panahon sa futbol, kung saan ang pagkakaibigan at respeto ang nangingibabaw. Sa kasalukuyan, ang pagpasok ng komersyo ay nagdulot ng mga hamon sa pagiging tunay ng laro.

Key Points

• When Futbol was Futbol — by Iñaki Ugalde.
• José Julián Lertxundi recalls the method of secretive and discreet coaching hiring in the '90s for Jupp Heynckes, and suggests a return to respect and authenticity of the game as Athletic start the new season with Terzić.
• Jupp Heynckes remains central to Athletic Club's plans.

It's interesting to think how some transfers and coach hires were carried out back then — almost like a scene from a spy movie. In his reminiscences, José Julián Lertxundi, former president of Athletic Club, described the scenes from Ibaigane when they secreted to get Jupp Heynckes in the 90s: personal contact, calls from an unknown number, and trips with obvious precautions. There are details that seem like a written story: description of who will be followed in the future, paper with the expected first eleven players to announce the squad to that public. Everything was done with the utmost discretion so as not to delay or compromise the conversation. These images show futbol simple and straightforward in intent — mud on the pitch, long studs, and the pure will of the sport. But there is a bitter tone to the reflection: it is said that the popular character of the game has gradually been lost due to the intrusion of commerce. Historically, close and silent acquisitions have been replaced by the intention to make a profit; what used to be called 'sport king' has become an industry. The call to return to some old habits—especially respect for professionals, whether or not they don't sweat drops on the pitch—is clear.

In that context, it is important to note that a new season is starting for Athletic, and there is a new coach on the bench: Terzić. The story does not represent any comparative form of exact data, but the hope is implicitly laid out: may Terzić leave a mark on Bilbao worthy of comparison with the one Heynckes left in the last decade. The journey from clandestine and private procurement to the large-scale industry of modern futbol reflects the wider changes that have taken place throughout the world of sport. As the market evolves, the challenge for clubs remains: how to preserve the essence of the game and respect for the players amid commercial pressure and expected results? The memory from Ibaigane and the hope of the new Athletic project are reminders that there are things worth preserving—the dignity of professionalism and the simple love of futbol. Image: Iñaki Ugalde (author of the original reflection) — image source from Mundo Deportivo.

What's next

As the new season begins for Athletic Club under the leadership of Terzić, the emergence of new player development strategies is expected to continue. Acquiring new players and building a solid squad will be key to their success in La Liga. The fans are hoping that the new coach will invigorate the team and restore their former glory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Jupp Heynckes?

Jupp Heynckes is a former player and coach who was part of Athletic Club in the 90s.

Who is the new coach of Athletic Club?

The new coach of Athletic Club is Terzić.

Why did Athletic Club choose Terzić?

Terzić was chosen to leave a mark on Bilbao similar to that left by Jupp Heynckes.

What is the status of Jupp Heynckes' deal with Athletic Club?

Jupp Heynckes' deal with Athletic Club was carried out with great discretion in the 90s.

When does the new season officially start for Athletic Club?

A new season has begun for Athletic Club, but no specific date has been given in context.

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