Athletic Bilbao have promoted four academy graduates to their first-team squad for the 2026/27 season. The club confirmed on Tuesday that Álex Padilla, Alejandro Rego, Hugo Rincón and Beñat Gerenabarrena, all born in 2003, will have first-team registration and squad numbers, as reported by AS.
All four players, developed at Lezama, are now fully integrated into Ernesto Valverde's senior squad. Padilla and Rego were with the team last season but now receive their official numbers. Rincón and Gerenabarrena return to Athletic after successful loan spells at Girona and Castellón respectively. This promotion coincided with the team's friendly match in Bergamo against Atalanta.
Who are the promoted players?
Álex Padilla is a 23-year-old midfielder who already has top-flight experience. Alejandro Rego, also 23, is a defender who recently renewed his contract. Hugo Rincón, a forward of the same age, scored eight goals during his loan in the second division with Girona. Beñat Gerenabarrena, another midfielder, was a key piece for Castellón last campaign. All four embody the club's commitment to its youth system, a historic pillar reflected in the current squad composition.
What about Peio Canales?
Peio Canales, born in 2005 and still an Under-23 player, will also join the first team, but with a specific arrangement. The player, back from his loan at Racing, will have a Bilbao Athletic squad number. This move frees up a first-team registration spot, a common management tactic to optimise LaLiga's inscription limits. Canales is viewed as a promising talent for the immediate future.
How does this affect Valverde's squad?
Adding these four players bolsters the depth of Valverde's team for a season with multiple commitments. Athletic face LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and possibly European competitions, so having internal options is important. These moves reduce the need for external signings, aligning with the club's philosophy. The current squad, which you can view on our squad page, gains youth and versatility. Furthermore, the team aims to improve its home form after recording 12 wins at San Mamés last season.
What is expected from this generation?
The promotion of the 2003 generation marks a natural step in the academy graduates' development. Valverde has shown trust in them during pre-season. Their adaptation to the first team will be key to maintaining competitiveness in a demanding league. The club closely monitors their progress, integrating performance data available on our stats page. The goal is for them to become pillars of the medium-term project, following the path of other lions produced by Lezama. The next test will come during the preparation matches and the official start of the championship.
