Jose Francisco ‘Txetxu’ Red Arroita stands as one of the most celebrated figures in Athletic Club history, a club that marked its 125th year of existence in 2023. He passed away this Friday at the age of 75, leaving a lasting legacy that resonates with fans across the Basque Country and beyond, and the club itself acknowledged the loss with a tribute. (Athletic Club)
Known affectionately as Rojo I, he was born in Bilbao on January 28, 1947, and shared the field with his brother José Ángel, who also wore the rojiblanco jersey. This familial connection adds a poignant layer to his story, underscoring a family dedication to Athletic that fans will remember for generations. His name sits alongside the club’s most enduring icons, and his presence on the pitch helped shape an era in which the team consistently challenged for honours. (Athletic Club)
Txetxu Rojo’s career spanned 17 seasons with Athletic Club, a period during which he appeared in 541 official matches. He stands as the second most capped player in the club’s storied history, surpassed only by the legendary José Ángel Iribar. Such numbers reflect a career built on consistency, skill, and an almost instinctive understanding of the game. He is remembered not just for his longevity, but for his intelligence on the left flank, where his left-footed finesse became a trademark of Athletic’s style of play. (Athletic Club)
Across his time with the rojiblancos, Rojo accumulated 68 goals, a tally earned through a blend of wing play, precise crosses, and smart positioning. He spent his peak years delivering performances that combined technical elegance with practical effectiveness, always contributing to the team’s attacking tempo. His impact went beyond statistics; he embodied the elegance and grit that Athletic fans associate with the club’s identity. (Athletic Club)
Rojo’s versatility stood out. He operated both as an outside left and as an inside forward on the same side, a configuration that allowed the team to adapt to different tactical demands while maintaining a fluid, dynamic attack. His style was marked by poise and control, qualities that helped him thrive in some of the most competitive matchups of his era. During his time with Athletic, he also tasted cup success, lifting the Copa del Generalísimo titles in 1969 and 1973 as Athletic bested Elche and Castellón in dramatic finals. Those victories are remembered as high points in a career defined by steady excellence and moments of decisive contribution. (Athletic Club)
The voice of the club and many fans alike celebrate Rojo not only for what he achieved but for how he conducted himself as a player and a teammate. He carried himself with a quiet confidence, letting his performances on the pitch tell the story. His passing marks the end of a chapter in Athletic’s long, storied history, but his influence endures in the memories of those who saw him play and in the culture of the club itself. He is remembered with respect and affection, a figure who helped to shape the identity of Athletic through every season he wore the red and white. (Athletic Club)
As the club commemorates its past, the legacy of Txetxu Rojo continues to inspire younger generations of players who look to the disciplined craft and understated brilliance he exemplified. He leaves behind a record of loyalty, skill, and a commitment to the values that have long defined Athletic Club. Fans and former teammates alike reflect on his contributions with gratitude, recognizing that his influence extended beyond the goals and appearances that defined his career. (Athletic Club)
In celebrating his life, the community remembers a player who combined artistic left-foot control with practical, hard-nosed football intelligence. Rojo’s career remains a testament to the enduring appeal of a winger who could influence games with subtle touches and decisive runs. His memory lives on in the stadium, in highlight reels, and in the conversations of fans who cherish Athletic’s history. (Athletic Club)