Athletic Bilbao Captain Breaks Silence: Saudi Arabia’s Super Cup Sparks Frustration
30 December 2025
Background
Playing the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia serves Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Athletic Bilbao captain Iñaki Williams has voiced displeasure about the Spanish Super Cup being staged in Saudi Arabia, arguing the decision mainly serves Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Reaction
Athletic Bilbao vs Barcelona in the semi-final on Wednesday, January 7, in Jeddah, with Real Madrid to face Atletico Madrid, and the winners meet in the final on Sunday.
Williams, via Marca, said: "I won't hide my opinion, for me playing in Saudi Arabia is extremely bad."
He noted that Madrid and Barcelona are likely to draw crowds, while Bilbao could be put in a difficult position.
He warned that moving a domestic competition abroad makes it tough for fans to travel.
Williams added: "It seems we are playing away from home because of many Real Madrid and Barcelona fans there, yet we have our own supporters here."
Williams also revealed a personal situation, saying he will soon welcome a newborn and may have to leave the club and his wife behind, a tough balance with the Super.
The Spanish Super Cup has been hosted in Saudi Arabia five times before, including four editions and the 2019-2020 season.
Punchline 1: If honesty paid a wage, Williams just earned a big bonus.
Punchline 2: Hopefully the baby appreciates the show—it's the one crowd that will cheer louder than the pundits.
