Arteta, Alonso, and Iraola: The Rise of Antiguoko Alumni

Mikel Arteta, Xabi Alonso, and Andoni Iraola, now managers in the Premier League, began their football journeys at Antiguoko, a small Basque club located in San Sebastian. All three were born within 15 miles of each other and only seven months apart, highlighting their shared origins.

At Antiguoko, they honed their skills on a challenging gravel pitch, where they played alongside talented peers. Their former coach, Roberto Montiel, reminisced about their early games, noting their exceptional vision and competitiveness. The club has a rich history of success, with Arteta, Alonso, and Iraola contributing to a team that was once dubbed the Basque Dream Team.

Antiguoko continues to nurture talent, with over 40 graduates now playing in top divisions. Montiel emphasized the club's commitment to instilling values of discipline and teamwork, which have shaped the careers of its alumni. As Arteta and Alonso prepare to face each other in an upcoming match, the club reflects on the remarkable journey of its most famous players.