Ibai Gómez

Early years

Born in Bilbao, Biscay, Gómez began his career with Santutxu FC in the Basque regional leagues, winning the Golden Ball for the category in February 2009. After five years with the club he left, but stayed in the region after agreeing on a move to Segunda División B's Sestao River Club.

Athletic Bilbao

On 4 June 2010, after Sestao's relegation, Gómez moved straight into La Liga, joining Athletic Bilbao for two years with an option for a further one or two. He spent most of his first season with the reserves in the third tier. On 17 October 2010, Gómez made his top-flight debut, coming on as a substitute for Gaizka Toquero in the 67th minute of a home match against Real Zaragoza (2–1 win); after only three minutes, however, he himself had to be replaced, being stretchered off after suffering a knee injury. Gómez contributed two goals as Athletic reached the final of the 2011–12 UEFA Europa League – totalling seven appearances in the competition – scoring against FC Schalke 04 (2–2 home draw, 6–4 on aggregate) and Sporting CP (3–1 home victory, 4–3 aggregate win). He was definitely promoted to the first team for 2012–13, being given the number 11 jersey. On 17 November 2012, he scored his first league goal of the campaign, in a 5–1 defeat at Real Madrid. In 2013–14, Gómez scored eight goals from only 18 appearances, helping the Lions finish fourth and qualify for the UEFA Champions League. He also dealt with some injury problems during that…

Gómez began working as a manager with his first club Santutxu's youths. On 23 February 2024, he was appointed as head coach of the Dominican Republic national under-23 team ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games in France. In May 2024, Gómez became the manager of Segunda Federación's Arenas Club de Getxo on a two-year deal. On 6 June of the following year, after leading the club to a promotion to Primera Federación, he left. Gómez was appointed at Segunda División side FC Andorra on 25 June 2025, replacing Beto Company. On 23 November, after eight matches without a win, he resigned. On 4 June 2026, Gómez was announced as head coach of Real Zaragoza for the upcoming campaign, their first ever in the third tier, with an option for two additional seasons.

Gómez was known for his crossing ability and powerful shot. Additionally, he was a set piece specialist with above-average dribbling skills.

As of 22 May 2021