The 2005-06 campaign was a turbulent season of two halves for Athletic Bilbao, with Los Leones ultimately securing a mid-table 12th-place finish in La Liga. The year was defined by the mid-season return of club legend Javier Clemente as manager, who replaced José Luis Mendilibar and successfully steered the club away from a tense relegation battle. Spearheading the attack was Aritz Aduriz, who returned to the club in January and whose 6 crucial league goals proved vital in solidifying their top-flight status. It was a high-pressure year of transition that showcased the club's resilience and remains a memorable chapter for Los Leones' faithful at San Mamés.