What became of… Alkiza

Previously… Bittor Alkiza (San Sebastián, 1970) was a former Spanish midfielder who spent most of his career with Athletic Club and Real Sociedad, playing a total of 417 games in the Liga BBVA. Alkiza also played for the Spanish national team.

His achievements…The midfielder made his debut for Real Sociedad in 1991, spending three seasons with the San Sebastian outfit. He was then sold to Athletic Club, where he stayed for the majority of his career, wearing the red and white jersey for nine seasons. His top class performances earned him a call up to the Spanish national side, representing his country three times. After leaving Athletic, Alkiza decided to return to La Real, bringing his career to an end two years later.

After hanging up his boots…The former Basque player has stayed involved with Real Sociedad, where he became director of youth football in 2010. In 2013-14, Alkiza became the team’s assistant coach under then head coach Jagoba Arrasate.

Did you know…Real Sociedad was always a huge part of his life, as he is the son of former La Real player  and ex-club president Iñaki Alkiza, which explains his passion for the Basque club.