Ruiz de Galarreta signs new two-year deal with Athletic Bilbao

MADRID, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Athletic Bilbao has extended the contract of midfielder Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta for two years until the end of June 2027.

The club has insured the future of a player who has been vital in its conquest of the 2024 Copa del Rey and its fourth-place finish in La Liga this season.

31-year-old Ruiz de Galarreta began his career in the Athletic youth system and made his first team debut in 2011, before leaving the club and playing for Mirandes, Zaragoza, FC Barcelona, Las Palmas and Mallorca and returning in the summer of 2023.

He has made 74 appearances in the past two years, with 39 in the current season, as Athletic also reached the semifinals of the Europa League, offering balance and vision in central midfield.

"I am very happy to be able to continue my dream for another two years and to enjoy this every day. Everything that's happened since my return home has been amazing and we are looking to the future with a lot of excitement," said Ruiz de Galarreta on the club website.

"A couple of years ago I was playing in the second division and next season I will hear the Champions League theme on the pitch of our San Mames Stadium. It's something I never imagined," he added.

The news comes a day after the club confirmed that coach Ernesto Valverde has signed a contract until the end of June 2026, ensuring him a 10th season as Athletic Bilbao coach. Enditem