FIFA approved Aymeric Laporte’s transfer to Athletic Bilbao after an initial rejection due to a transfer deadline issue. The Spanish football federation successfully appealed the decision, allowing the defender to return to his former club from Al-Nassr. He previously played for the club between 2012 and 2018.
In a dramatic turn of events, FIFA has granted approval for Spain defender Aymeric Laporte's transfer to Athletic Bilbao from Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr. The move, initially stalled due to a transfer deadline mishap, has now been greenlit, much to the relief of the La Liga club and the player.
Athletic Bilbao had initially attempted to secure the services of the 31-year-old on September 1st, but the transfer window slammed shut before all the necessary paperwork could be finalized. This left the Basque club in a precarious position, having missed the deadline to register the player.
The Spanish football federation (RFEF) stepped in to appeal to FIFA, the world football governing body, requesting an exception to be made in this unusual case. However, their initial plea was turned down, casting doubt on Laporte's return to his former club.
Undeterred, the RFEF persisted and sought to overturn the initial decision. Their persistence paid off, as FIFA eventually granted the request, paving the way for Laporte's transfer to proceed. This reversal of fortune has been met with jubilation in Bilbao, as the club eagerly anticipates the arrival of their former star.
Reports in Spanish media suggest that the delay was due to Al-Nassr failing to file the necessary transfer details online via FIFA's Transfer Matching System (TMS). This system is designed to ensure transparency and efficiency in international transfers, and any failure to comply with its regulations can lead to complications.
Athletic Club released an official statement expressing their gratitude to FIFA for their intervention. "Athletic Club would like to report that FIFA has authorized the RFEF to obtain the International Transfer Certificate (ITC) from the Saudi Arabian football federation," the statement read. "Once the ITC is issued, Aymeric Laporte can be registered with Athletic Club."
Laporte's return to Athletic Bilbao marks a significant moment for both the player and the club. He made over 200 appearances for the Basque side between 2012 and 2018, establishing himself as a key figure in their defense. His performances earned him a move to Manchester City, where he spent five successful years before joining Al-Nassr in 2023.
During his time at Manchester City, Laporte won numerous trophies, including multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and League Cups. However, he eventually fell out of favor under manager Pep Guardiola and sought a new challenge in Saudi Arabia.
His stint in the Saudi Pro League proved to be short-lived, as he quickly grew homesick and expressed a desire to return to Europe. Athletic Bilbao emerged as the frontrunners for his signature, and Laporte was keen to rejoin his former club.
The transfer saga has been a rollercoaster ride for all parties involved, but the final outcome has brought a sense of relief and excitement to Athletic Bilbao. The club's supporters are eagerly awaiting Laporte's arrival, and they hope that he can help them challenge for silverware in the upcoming season.
Laporte's experience and leadership will be invaluable to Athletic Bilbao, and his return is a major boost for the club's ambitions. He is a proven defender with a wealth of experience at the highest level, and he will undoubtedly strengthen Athletic Bilbao's backline.
The club will be hoping that he can quickly settle back into his familiar surroundings and rediscover the form that made him such a popular figure during his first spell at the club. His arrival will also provide a welcome boost to the squad's morale, and he will be eager to make an immediate impact on the pitch.
As Athletic Bilbao prepare for their next La Liga match, the excitement surrounding Laporte's return is palpable. The club's supporters are confident that he can help them achieve their goals, and they eagerly anticipate seeing him back in action at San Mames.