Athletic finds themselves without first team goalkeepers for EH
Secondo Mundodeportivo.
Context
Unai Simón, currently in the national team, is a key element for Athletic Club and has contributed significantly to their recent history. With his absence, the club relies on a young goalkeeper from the youth sector, Mikel Santos, to face an important final, highlighting the need to develop talent within the structure of the club, which is also actively involved in the Primera RFEF.
Why it matters
The absence of Unai Simón and Padilla for the EH Kopa final represents a significant challenge for Athletic Club, who are in a delicate phase of the season. Simón's call-up to the Spanish national team, following his contribution to the World Cup victory, highlights his importance in the football landscape, while Padilla has seen a relaunch of his career with the Mexican national team.
Key points
- Athletic finds itself without first team goalkeepers for EH.
- Athletic Club will face the EH Kopa final without its starting goalkeepers, Unai Simón and Padilla, both called up by their respective national teams.
- The Athletic is looking for the goalkeepers of the first team for the EH Kopa.
Athletic Club is preparing to face an unprecedented challenge for the EH Kopa final, scheduled for Friday 2 October, against Real Sociedad, without its starting goalkeepers. The international call-ups have in fact deprived the team of Unai Simón, who joins the Spanish national team, and Padilla, called up with Mexico. This situation forced the coach, Terzic, to look for alternative solutions at a crucial moment of the season.
Mikel Santos, goalkeeper from the youth sector, is the main candidate to take his place between the posts. Santos has already had the opportunity to train with the first team during the summer preparation and has shown that he has the qualities necessary to face a high-level match like the one against Real Sociedad.
The Basque club, which is experiencing a period of transition, however has other challenges planned. After the EH Kopa final, Athletic Club will return to the field on 10 October against Rayo Vallecano, for a championship match that promises to be equally exciting.
Furthermore, Bilbao Athletic, the second division team, will face Extremadura on October 4, a match which could involve Santos if circumstances allow. If Santos is not available for both matches, Athletic may have to rely on Simón García or Pagazartundua, both youth goalkeepers.
Padilla, who has not been called up by the Mexican national team since September 2024, saw his career reborn thanks to the arrival of Rafa Márquez as coach, who decided to give him a new opportunity. Terzic expressed enthusiasm for Padilla's performance during training, underlining the importance of having players who demonstrate commitment and dedication.
"He is a special case because he hasn't played even a minute in the league, but he has had a great pre-season and works hard in every training session. He deserves this opportunity and we wish him the best, but the most important thing for me as a coach is that he continues to perform at his best in every training session. That's why I want to have players like 'Padi' in my team," said Terzic.
With such an important final on the horizon and the need to guarantee good performances in the championship, Athletic Club finds itself having to manage a complex situation, but with the hope of being able to count on a young talent like Mikel Santos to best face this challenge.
What happens now
With Mikel Santos ready to take over as starting goalkeeper, Athletic Club will have to quickly adapt to this new situation. After the final against Real Sociedad, the team will face Rayo Vallecano, where it will be crucial for Santos to demonstrate his abilities. Furthermore, Bilbao Athletic could need a goalkeeper from the youth sector, such as Simón García or Pagazartundua, if Santos is not available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened with the Athletic Club goalkeepers?
Athletic Club finds itself without its starting goalkeepers, Unai Simón and Padilla, due to international call-ups.
Who confirmed the absence of Unai Simón and Padilla?
The situation was confirmed by coach Terzic, who had to look for alternative solutions.
Why does Athletic Club have to face this situation now?
The lack of starting goalkeepers occurs at a crucial moment of the season, in view of the EH Kopa final.
What changes are planned for the EH Kopa final?
Mikel Santos, goalkeeper from the youth sector, is the main candidate to replace the starting goalkeepers.
What will happen after the EH Kopa final for Athletic Club?
After the final, Athletic Club will return to action on October 10 against Rayo Vallecano.
