Athletic Club tie up renewal for striker until 2028

Originally posted on Football Espana | By Ruairidh Barlow | Last updated Feb 20, 2024 11:40 AM ET

Athletic Club have confirmed a new contract for forward Gorka Guruzeta, who signs on for the next four-and-a-half years. The 27-year-old was brought back from Basque side Amorebieta two summers ago, and gradually improved since.

This season he is their joint-top scorer with Inaki Williams, counting 10 to his name, as well as three assists. It’s a total that has surpassed last season’s six already, and has coincided with a dramatic improvement for Los Leones.

"Continuing in this family is a dream and a reward for a lot of hard work over the last few years."

"Hopefully things keep going well and we can achieve some amazing feats."

#Guruzeta2028 #AthleticClub pic.twitter.com/7rtyO012Pm

— Athletic Club (@Athletic_en) February 20, 2024

Never previously considered as the forward to lead the line for Athletic, his improvement and movement have been key for Ernesto Valverde, allowing him to shift Inaki Williams back to the wing, opposite his brother Nico Williams.

#AthleticClub have confirmed a new deal for Gorka Guruzeta running until 2028.pic.twitter.com/AlumZXmZgb

— Football España (@footballespana_) February 20, 2024

He will be 31 by the time his deal expires, and San Mames will likely have his best years. Since Aritz Aduriz’s retirement, the Basques have struggled for production from the number nine spot, but his emergence has proven to be a game-changer Athletic.

This article first appeared on Football Espana and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: