A new era is unfolding at Athletic Bilbao, with Jon Uriarte re-elected and Ernesto Valverde's imminent departure, to be succeeded by German coach Terzic. Among the first crucial decisions for the new management is the reshaping of the goalkeeping picture, an area where Mexico's interest in Alex Padilla has re-emerged, adding a layer of complexity to the club's plans.

Ernesto Valverde's departure marks the beginning of this transition, with Terzic taking the helm and Mikel González in the sporting director role. The goalkeeping situation is a priority, as Athletic Bilbao plans to have three goalkeepers under contract next season, necessitating a thorough review of the position.

Currently, Unai Simón remains Spain’s first-choice, while the Lezama academy has produced talents like Julen Agirrezabala and Alex Padilla. Agirrezabala was injured during his loan at Valencia and will miss the run-in, as the Valencian club seeks to extend Dimitrievski's contract.

Alex Padilla, for his part, has used the Copa del Rey to gain experience following Agirrezabala's departure. Simultaneous injuries to Unai Simón and Julen Agirrezabala at the start of the 2024-2025 season pushed him into the first team, where he delivered notable displays against Getafe and Barcelona before rotating back out.

In January 2025, Padilla joined Pumas on loan to maintain his rhythm and minutes, leaving a strong impression in Mexico. During his stint, he received a call-up from that country’s national team and totaled 1,620 minutes across 18 matches.

This season, Alex Padilla logged 510 minutes in the Copa del Rey, securing one clean sheet and showing notable improvement with his feet and decision-making. As the campaign closes, interest from Mexico in the young goalkeeper has re-emerged strongly.

With Alex Padilla under contract with Athletic Bilbao until 2029, his immediate future now hinges on the decisions made by the new coach Terzic and sporting director Mikel González, who will need to define the promising goalkeeper's role in the team's upcoming configuration.