Athletic Club has started the season with a tough setback. The desired return of Aymeric Laporte has been frustrated. The center-back, who was coming back from Al-Nassr, won't be able to be registered in time to play.
The problem wasn't financial or sporting, but administrative. The official documentation for the signing arrived late and, moreover, incomplete. FIFA and RFEF are analyzing the case, but it's almost impossible for Laporte to play before the winter transfer window.
For the Bilbao club, it's a significant blow; the fans dreamed of his return. Seeing Laporte lead the defense and bring his international experience was one of the great desires of the summer. Ernesto Valverde is losing, at least temporarily, one of the pillars of his project.
The origin of the problem
Everything started on the last day of the transfer window. Although the agreement between clubs and player was finalized, the "transfer" from Saudi Arabia arrived after the deadline. In addition, some documents were incomplete.
That delay made it impossible to register the operation before the transfer window closed. Now, only an exceptional resolution in the offices could allow Laporte to play before January. Patience will be key for the red-and-white fans.
Sporting consequences
Laporte's absence leaves a significant gap in defense. His experience and leadership were going to be essential for a team looking to consolidate under Valverde's direction. The planning is altered and forces Athletic to look for alternatives within its squad.
Athletic's defense, which counted on him as a key piece, will have to adapt. Other players will have to take on greater responsibilities and the pressure in the first matches will be evident.
Barça and the opportunity
Meanwhile, FC Barcelona is watching closely; Athletic's failure to secure Laporte may open new opportunities. There had already been speculation about the Catalan club's interest in its players trained at Lezama. In fact, in the summer, Barça tried to get ahead of Athletic with Nico Williams.
The situation confirms that the Catalan club is always alert to the market and ready to take advantage of any administrative or strategic mistake by its rival. Although Laporte remains linked to Athletic, Barça could re-enter the picture in January.
What's next
For Athletic, all that's left is to wait. Only an exceptional arrangement would allow Laporte to play before winter. The fans will have to be patient and trust the current squad.
In contrast, Barça is keeping its active strategy. The focus on Lezama and promising players continues. History shows that summer moves don't always materialize, but they can set up important operations for the near future.