Athletic Bilbao HubAthletic Bilbao weighs Alex Padilla’s return and the risk of missing the 2026 World Cup
Athletic Bilbao is about to decide whether to pay the €300,000 clause, according to Diario AS, to bring back goalkeeper Alex Padilla, currently in pre‑season with Mexico’s Pumas. The move would shore up San Mamés’ goalkeeping options, but would force Padilla to leave the Mexican league just before it starts, potentially costing him a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
Why does Athletic need Padilla?
With Unai Simón already confirmed as starter, the club seeks at least a quality backup. Julen Agirrezabala, the current second‑choice, appears to be heading for a loan to Valencia, leaving the reserve role open. Padilla, 23, has shown reliability in the Copa and Europa League, and his contract with Athletic runs until 2029. The board believes his Mexican experience would provide the stability needed for the Champions League matches the club aims to play.
What would returning mean for the goalkeeper?
If Athletic triggers the clause, Padilla would have to return to Bilbao in less than a week, just as the Pumas begin their season. He would forfeit valuable minutes in Liga MX, which could affect his form and, more importantly, his place in Javier Agirre’s 2026 World Cup squad. Padilla has already been called up by the senior national team, but losing playing time could make the coach favour another keeper.
Key figures
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Repurchase clause | €300,000 |
| Athletic contract | Until 2029 |
| Padilla’s age | 23 years |
| Next Liga MX start | 9 July 2025 |
What will the board decide?
The club has only a few days before Athletic’s pre‑season kicks off. President Valverde must weigh the urgency of bolstering the bench against the possible loss of a key player for the Spanish national team. Fan pressure, still focused on the Nico Williams saga, adds another layer of complexity. Whatever the decision, an announcement is expected before the first official training session.
What does this mean for Athletic’s future?
Signing Padilla would give Athletic Bilbao three quality goalkeeping options, essential for competing in Europe. However, if the club chooses not to pay the clause, it may need to pursue another loan or rely on a youth academy prospect. The transfer window closes on 31 August, so the pressure will remain high.
Padilla’s dilemma highlights how club and national team interests can clash in the summer market, and how Athletic Bilbao must balance continental ambitions with the realities of international players.
