Oihan Sancet’s Celtic Connection: The Story Behind the “You’ll Never Walk Alone” Tattoo
In a thrilling Europa League quarter-final clash on April 17, 2025, Athletic Bilbao’s Oihan Sancet delivered a commanding performance, scoring a crucial penalty that helped secure a 2-0 victory over Rangers at San Mamés, ending the Scottish side’s European dreams. But it wasn’t just his goal that captured attention. As Sancet celebrated, cameras caught a glimpse of a tattoo on his arm reading “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” a chant synonymous with Celtic, Rangers’ fiercest rivals, as well as Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund. The revelation sparked intrigue, especially among Celtic fans, given the unique bond between their club and Athletic Bilbao. So, why does a Basque midfielder carry this iconic phrase etched on his skin?
Sancet, a 24-year-old midfield dynamo, has been a cornerstone of Athletic Bilbao’s resurgence in La Liga and European competitions. Against Rangers, he showcased his versatility and composure. His penalty in the 48th minute broke the deadlock after a tense, goalless first leg at Ibrox. The spot-kick, confidently dispatched past Rangers’ goalkeeper Liam Kelly, set the tone for Bilbao’s dominance. Later, Sancet’s influence in midfield paved the way for Nico Williams’ header, sealing a 2-0 win and a semi-final berth against Manchester United.
However, it was the tattoo reveal during his celebration that stole headlines. As Sancet lifted his sleeve, the words “You’ll Never Walk Alone” sparked a frenzy, particularly among Celtic supporters, who saw it as a subtle nod to their club during a match against their Glasgow rivals. Posts on X amplified the moment, with fans speculating about the tattoo’s origins and its potential connection to Celtic’s storied history.
The Celtic-Athletic Bilbao Bond
To understand the significance of Sancet’s tattoo, one must first explore the deep connection between Athletic Bilbao and Celtic. The two clubs have shared a unique friendship since 2011, when they met in a friendly match in the Basque Country. The game, which ended in a goalless draw, highlighted shared values: both clubs pride themselves on tradition, local identity, and passionate fanbases. Celtic’s then-manager Neil Lennon noted the similarities, describing the clubs as kindred spirits.
This bond strengthened over the years. In 2019, Athletic Bilbao honored Celtic legend Billy McNeill with their “One Club Man” award, recognizing his lifelong dedication to the Hoops. Bilbao delegate José Ángel Iribar traveled to Glasgow to present the award to McNeill’s son, Martin, after the icon’s passing. In 2023, the clubs met again for James Forrest’s testimonial at Celtic Park, a match that further cemented their camaraderie. Bilbao fans, known as the “Bilbao Bhoys,” regularly gather in Plaza Nueva to watch Celtic matches, waving Hoops scarves and singing Celtic chants.
This connection added an extra layer of spice to Bilbao’s Europa League tie against Rangers. Celtic fans, ever eager to see their rivals humbled, cheered Bilbao’s victory, with some spotting Celtic kits and Irish tricolors in the San Mamés stands. Sancet’s tattoo, displayed proudly after his goal, felt like a poetic jab in the context of the Old Firm rivalry.
So, what inspired Sancet’s “You’ll Never Walk Alone” tattoo? In a post-match interview, Sancet addressed the speculation, revealing that the tattoo is a personal tribute rather than a direct homage to any single club. “The phrase ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ has always resonated with me,” Sancet explained. “It’s about unity, resilience, and the support of those around you—values I grew up with in the Basque Country. I got the tattoo when I was younger, inspired by the song’s message, not just one team.”
Sancet acknowledged the Celtic connection, noting Athletic Bilbao’s friendship with the Scottish club. “I know how much it means to Celtic fans, and I’ve heard about our clubs’ bond. It’s special to see their flags in our stands,” he said. However, he clarified that the tattoo isn’t exclusively a Celtic reference, adding, “It could be Celtic, Liverpool, Dortmund, or just the idea itself. I like that it means something to so many people.”
The ambiguity of Sancet’s explanation only fueled debate. Some Celtic fans embraced the tattoo as a subtle nod to their club, especially given the timing of its reveal against Rangers. Others speculated that Sancet, a lifelong Athletic Bilbao player, might simply admire the anthem’s universal appeal, popularized by Gerry and the Pacemakers and adopted by multiple footballing cultures.
