Laporte’s Athletic Club Return Confirmed After FIFA Approval

Aymeric Laporte’s highly anticipated return to Athletic Club has been officially confirmed following FIFA’s intervention to resolve a registration mix-up involving Al-Nassr. The Spanish international defender sealed a three-year deal that will keep him in Bilbao until 2028, marking a homecoming to the club where he began his professional career.

Aymeric Laporte and the Athletic Club Reunion

Aymeric Laporte’s move back to Athletic Club is everything the player hoped for after a tense transfer deadline day. Laporte, who rose to prominence at the Basque club before enjoying success at Manchester City and recently playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, faced uncertainty due to a registration error from his previous club, Al-Nassr. The mistake temporarily blocked his return to La Liga, leaving fans and the player himself anxiously awaiting a resolution.

FIFA Steps In to Secure Laporte’s Registration

FIFA acted swiftly after learning of the deadline day confusion, overturning the delay caused by Al-Nassr’s paperwork error. This decision cleared the path for Laporte’s registration with Athletic Club, bringing relief to both club officials and supporters. Athletic Club president Jon Uriarte expressed gratitude for FIFA’s prompt response, emphasizing Laporte’s importance to the team’s defensive structure.

Laporte’s Emotional Return to Bilbao

Laporte signed a contract that runs through 2028, symbolizing his long-term commitment to Athletic Club. The 30-year-old defender described the move as a “dream come true” and said returning to Bilbao was “everything I wanted.” Laporte’s presence will undoubtedly bolster Athletic’s backline and bring experience to a squad eager to compete at the top levels of Spanish football.

Laporte’s Journey: From Bilbao to the World and Back

Having originally joined Athletic Club’s youth system, Laporte made over 220 appearances for the Basque side before moving to Manchester City in 2018. At City, he became a key figure under Pep Guardiola, winning multiple Premier League titles and domestic cups. Laporte then joined Al-Nassr in 2023, participating in the Saudi Pro League alongside stars like Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite a brief stay in Saudi Arabia, Laporte’s heart remained in Bilbao, and he seized the chance to return when it arose.

Athletic Club’s Ambitions with Laporte

The signing of Laporte comes at an important time for Athletic Club. The team is aiming to strengthen its position in La Liga and challenge for European qualification. Laporte’s defensive skills, leadership, and familiarity with the club’s culture are expected to be crucial assets. Head coach Ernesto Valverde believes Laporte’s experience in top European competitions will inspire younger players and enhance the squad’s stability.

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FIFA’s Role in Modern Football Transfers

The swift resolution of Laporte’s transfer saga highlights the critical role FIFA plays in overseeing and regulating international football transfers. Administrative errors can have a major impact, but FIFA’s intervention ensured that player rights and club interests were protected. This case serves as a reminder of the complex logistics behind global football moves, especially when multiple leagues and time zones are involved.

Upcoming Fixtures for Laporte and Athletic Club

Laporte is expected to feature in Athletic Club’s upcoming La Liga clash against Deportivo Alaves on 13 September 2025—a match eagerly anticipated by fans. His return has ignited excitement throughout Bilbao, with tickets for the home debut selling fast. Just a day later, Laporte’s former club Al-Nassr faces Al Kholood in the Saudi Pro League, highlighting the contrasting paths his career has taken over the past year.

Opinion: A Homecoming That Benefits Both Sides

Laporte’s return to Athletic Club is more than a simple transfer; it’s a homecoming that unites a club legend with his roots. Both Athletic Club and Laporte stand to benefit—Bilbao regains a top-class defender with international experience, while Laporte finds the stability and sense of belonging he values. In an era where football careers span continents, such reunions offer powerful narratives and renewed purpose for players and fans alike.