Athletic Bilbao defender Yeray Álvarez suffered a head injury that forced him off the pitch during Thursday's match against Atlético de Madrid. According to El Correo, the centre-back took a heavy blow in a clash with opposing player Morten Hjulmand just before half-time, resulting in a cut that began to bleed.
Although treated and able to return to finish the first half, Yeray went down again in added time, showing he could not continue. The coaching staff, led by Ernesto Valverde, prepared his substitution. Ariadne Paredes came on in his place after the break, in the first change of a match that ultimately ended goalless. The concussion protocol allowed Athletic to make that additional substitution.
What exactly happened to Yeray?
The incident occurred during an aerial duel. Yeray Álvarez and Morten Hjulmand collided head-on while contesting the ball. The impact was forceful and left the Basque player with an open wound on his forehead. The image of the defender bleeding and receiving medical attention caused concern in the stands of San Mamés. Even Atlético manager Diego Simeone showed a gesture of support towards Yeray as he passed by on his second exit from the pitch.
The club activated the specific procedure for head impacts. This protocol, established by LaLiga, grants each team an extra substitution in these situations, which facilitated Paredes's immediate introduction. The severity of the injury and the necessary recovery time will be determined in the coming days following pertinent medical tests.
How does this absence affect Athletic's defence?
Yeray Álvarez's absence is a significant blow to Valverde's backline. The 31-year-old centre-back is a defensive pillar and had just regained his starting spot after being on the bench for the previous match in Vigo. His potential unavailability for upcoming fixtures forces a defensive reshuffle. Dani Vivian and Aitor Paredes are the natural centre-backs who remain available, while Yuri Berchiche can also operate in that position if needed.
The injury comes at a delicate point in the calendar. The team faces a series of important matches, including the next Liga clash against Real Betis. The full squad and their availability can be checked on the squad page. Defensive solidity has been a hallmark of Athletic this season, and maintaining it without one of its leaders will be a challenge.
Who is Ariadne Paredes, his replacement?
The player who took Yeray's place was Ariadne Paredes, a 24-year-old defender who has been gaining prominence in the team. Her introduction in this match was not her first of the campaign, demonstrating the coach's trust in her. Paredes brings speed and good aerial ability, traits that were useful in containing the Atlético attack in the second half.
Her performance is part of a positive trend from the academy. Athletic has several young players defending the shirt reliably, a fact reflected in the team's stats. The squad's ability to absorb absences of this kind will be key for the season's objectives, which include fighting for European places. The current standings can be followed in the standings section.
Athletic Bilbao's next fixture is a trip to Sevilla to face Real Betis on Sunday, September 11th.
