Javi González Returns To Athletic As Basconia Assistant Coach
Javi González during a veterans match for Athletic (AC)
Since retiring from football in 2011 Javi González has established himself as one of the top youth coaches in the Basque Country. The former Athletic midfielder initially joined the coaching staff at Danok Bat where he spent six seasons before a switch to Alavés. Athletic have always been interested in bringing González back to Lezama and the move has finally happened.
When González announced in May that he would be leaving Alavés it was immediately believed that his intention was to return to Athletic. Sporting Director Rafa Alkorta had already tried to bring González to Lezama last summer but the coach wanted to honor the last year of his contract.
On Wednesday Athletic officially announced that González has signed with the club and will become the assistant coach for CD Basconia under Patxi Salinas. As a result, current assistant coach Jon Moreno will move to the Analysis Department of Lezama working with both the first team and academy.
The signing of Javi González is massive for Athletic as the club has added yet another top coach and former player to the academy. During his playing career González spent ten seasons with Athletic after coming through Lezama. The will likely have big plans for González moving forward, but for now he will play an important role in helping young players transition to becoming professional footballers at Basconia.