What happened?
Andoni Gorosabel, Athletic Bilbao's right-back, faces uncertain future after being left out of the Atalanta match. According to El Correo, his pre-season stalled on July 6 at Lezama when a moderate injury to the adductor longus in his right leg was diagnosed, keeping him in rehab while rivals banked minutes.
Why it matters for Athletic Bilbao
Edin Terzic's decision to leave Gorosabel out of the Atalanta match suggests that the coach values full-backs with a constant attacking thrust. Gorosabel, 30, is the most reliable defensively of the trio, but his more conservative profile fits less neatly with that vertical plan.
What comes next?
With a contract to June 2028, an exit is seen as a logical way to lighten an oversized squad. Despite his La Liga standing remaining solid, with clubs tracking him, Gorosabel must weigh a secondary role against a move to regain continuity.
What role does Areso play in all this?
Jesús Areso, a €12 million signing, has owned the flank this summer with 372 minutes. His more aggressive profile fits better with Terzic's plan.
What role does Rincón play in all this?
Hugo Rincón, 23 and hardened at Mirandés and Girona, has logged 213 minutes and looks the preferred rotation option.
What role does Terzic play in all this?
Edin Terzic, Athletic's coach, seeks full-backs with a constant attacking thrust. Gorosabel, despite being the most reliable defensively, does not fit as well with that vertical plan.
What role does the market play in all this?
The market approaches Athletic's league opener against Sevilla, and Gorosabel must decide whether to stay with the club or seek a transfer to regain continuity.
