15 seasons in the first team. Athletic Bilbao captain leaves the club

Legendary attacking midfielder of Athletic Bilbao, Iker Muniain, shocked the club's fans today with a statement.

The 31-year-old captain of the team officially announced that he is leaving the club as a free agent this summer since his contract expires in June.

"You have been the best thing that ever happened to me. But now, my love, it's time for us to part ways", Muniain said in his address to the club and the fans.

While announcing his decision to his teammates, Muniain couldn't hold back his tears. Some Athletic players were also seen shedding tears.

Muniain holds the record for the most appearances for Athletic in the club's history. He has played 557 games, scoring 75 goals and providing 70 assists.

Additionally, Muniain is the youngest player in the history of the main Basque club. In 2009, he made his debut for Athletic in a Europa League qualification match against Young Boys at the age of 16 years, 7 months, and 11 days. Since then, Muniain has spent 15 seasons with the first team.

In the current season, Muniain has lost his place in the starting lineup. He has only played 17 La Liga matches and scored 1 goal.