Xiker Ozerinjauregi

Xiker Ozerinjauregi Mendikoetxea (born 30 January 1997), known as Xiker, is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a central defender for CD Ebro.

Xiker began his footballing career in 2007 when he joined the academy of Athletic Bilbao. He progressed through the club's youth and reserve sides over the course of the next nine years before being halted by a serious injury. Following his recovery, he spent a season each at Segunda Division B clubs Toledo and Pena Sport before joining Real Sociedad B in 2018. He then enjoyed brief spells with Cornella, Real Betis B and Sabadell, before joining Ebro in 2020.

Xiker is also a former Spanish youth international and represented Spain at various youth levels between 2013 and 2015.

Club Career

Early career

A product of Athletic Bilbao's famed academy, Xiker joined the club at the age of ten and spent nine seasons developing his game at the Lezama training ground. During his time with Athletic, he represented the club at the UEFA Youth League and was considered to be one of Spain's brightest defensive prospects.