Peio Canales returns to Athletic Bilbao after a successful loan spell at Racing de Santander, where he played a key role in their promotion to Segunda División. At 21, the Lezama-trained midfielder now aims to earn a spot in Edin Terzić's first team. His return finalizes the 2026/27 squad, with a contract until June 2027 and a possible unilateral extension for two more years.
What did Canales do at Racing de Santander?
During his time in Santander, Canales made 35 appearances, starting 33, accumulating 2,855 minutes, six goals, and nine assists. His maturity and consistency stood out, as he was one of the players with the highest distance covered in the championship-winning team. He returns with competitive rhythm and experience in a high-performing squad.
Where can he fit in at Athletic Bilbao?
Canales is right-footed and versatile, capable of playing as an offensive midfielder or attacking mid. In Terzić's 4-2-3-1, he can partner a positional midfielder or replace Oihan Sancet. He also fits as a winger in a 4-3-3. His best quality is linking midfield to attack, backed by six goals and nine assists in Segunda.
What is his competition in the team?
Sancet starts with an advantage in the attacking mid role, while Robert Navarro and Álex Berenguer can also occupy interior zones. In the double pivot, he competes with Mikel Jauregizar, Iñigo Ruiz de Galarreta, Beñat Prados, Mikel Vesga, and Alejandro Rego. Canales can share the lineup with Sancet as an "8", especially if the latter suffers injuries. To earn a starting spot, he must replicate his Segunda production in LaLiga.
What does he need to improve?
He is not a defensive specialist and must adapt to the pace of LaLiga. At Racing, he stood out for his work rate and creativity, but in LaLiga, he will have less time to turn. He needs to improve his defensive positioning, off-the-ball concentration, and decision-making. His eight previous appearances with Athletic provide limited reference, but his progress is clear.
