Aymeric Laporte Seals Dramatic Return To Athletic Club

Aymeric Laporte is back at Athletic Club after spending two years at Al Nassr. The defender returns to the club where he started his professional career, bringing an end to a lengthy transfer saga. Aymeric Laporte is heading back to Athletic Club after a deal was reached with Al Nassr.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The transfer appeared in jeopardy after Al Nassr submitted paperwork after the window deadline, leading to FIFA initially blocking the move. However, Athletic Club and the Spanish federation launched appeals, resulting in FIFA eventually approving Laporte‘s registration. The 31-year-old defender has penned a three-year contract, returning to the club where he made his name, and strengthens Ernesto Valverde’s squad ahead of a demanding season that includes Champions League football for the Basque side. Laporte, who made 222 appearances for Athletic before spells at Manchester City and Al Nassr, has returned to his boyhood club despite interest from other European clubs and a more lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia. The defender’s arrival is particularly timely as Athletic only had two available center-backs due to the suspension of Yeray Álvarez, making him a crucial acquisition at this stage of the campaign.

ATHLETIC CLUB’S SEASON SO FAR

Athletic made a strong start to the 2025–26 La Liga season and are top in the standings after picking up 12 points from four games. They are level on points with Real Madrid and two ahead of Villarreal and Barcelona. The Basques are also set to begin their Champions League campaign containing Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund, and FC Copenhagen. Athletic faces mid-table side Alaves next. They have a packed schedule and have been short of defensive depth, so Laporte’s signing will provide much-needed cover ahead of a packed schedule. Jesus Areso and Robert Navarro have also joined this summer, while key player Nico Williams remains with the club despite interest from Barcelona.

WHAT NEXT FOR LAPORTE AND ATHLETIC?

Laporte is expected to go straight into Athletic’s starting XI and help to shore up their defense. His experience of playing at the top level for clubs such as Manchester City and in competitions such as the Champions League will be vital for Valverde’s side. Athletic will be hoping to build on last season’s sixth-place finish and aim to go deep in La Liga and Europe this season. Laporte’s leadership will also be crucial, as Athletic’s more inexperienced defenders have to step up in the absence of Álvarez. The team have a busy schedule ahead, with the Champions League group stage beginning next week, as well as meetings against direct rivals in La Liga over the coming weeks. Athletic will be hoping Laporte’s return helps them close the gap at the top as the club chase silverware this season.