In Spanish football circles, Óscar de Marcos Arana is regarded as a symbol of resilience and loyalty. He has been playing for Athletic Bilbao in the Basque Country since 2009, and has long occupied the right-back position in the top league with full passion and skills. As he reaches the 500-game milestone in the 2023–24 season, his career has not only witnessed his own growth, but also added countless precious memories on countless winter nights and summer games.
The player born in 1989 grew up in La Guerdia, Basque, and began his career with local team Depotiva Alaves. Although he only played 20 games here, this experience laid the foundation for his football career. In 2009, De Marcos joined Athletic Bilbao for a transfer fee of approximately 350,000 euros, which became an important turning point in his career.
"My love for this club cannot be expressed in words. This is my home and I hope to win more honors here."
De Marcos' debut in the European arena was an unforgettable experience. He started the game against BSC Young Boys and went all out to defend the team's victory. As the game progressed, he received more playing opportunities and gradually became the core of the team. In the 2011-12 season, he performed well in the Europa League against Premier League giants Manchester United, scoring goals in both rounds to help the team advance. During this period, he also represented the Basque Country in many informal matches, showing his deep affection for this land.
Away from the court, De Marcos was known for his humanitarian efforts. He often visits sick children in local hospitals anonymously and is passionate about supporting charities in Africa and South America. He even often provides rides to supporters who come to training during training. All of this reflects a star's sense of responsibility and care.
"On this stage, all the halo and achievements are inferior to those things that can truly help others."
During De Marcos' career, frequent injuries seemed to be a test between him and success. He missed two months in 2016 due to a foot injury and also missed the 2019-20 season due to a left ankle ligament injury. Despite this, he always maintained a positive attitude and a desire to return to the court. With the outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic, his comeback once again allowed fans to see his persistence and hard work.
With the start of the 2023-24 season, De Marcos ushered in the historical moment of his 500th game in Athletic Bilbao, becoming the seventh player to achieve this achievement. The 33-year-old's hard work and dedication on the field have won the respect of fans, making his story an ideal in the hearts of countless young football players.
"Success is not the end, but the process of achieving our goals. Every game is an opportunity for me to express myself and learn."
With his appointment as captain for the next season, De Marcos' leadership role is strengthening day by day, making him not only a technical presence on the court, but also a symbol of spiritual leadership. His demeanor on the court and personality off the court make him a model player for Athletic Bilbao, holding the team's future hopes and expectations in his hands.
During his career, De Marcos not only won many honors such as Copa del Rey and Supercopa de España, but also worked hard and persevered in several finals. His story reminds every player that every effort and every fight is a solid cornerstone on the road to greatness.
How will he continue to create his own football legend in the future?