Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr are preparing for the new Saudi Pro League season as FIFA has approved Aymeric Laporte‘s transfer back to Athletic Club. This decision reverses an earlier block on the move, allowing the Spanish defender to return to Bilbao for the upcoming season.
FIFA initially rejected the transfer due to late paperwork. However, as reported by Diario AS, the agreement between both clubs was completed on time, and the delay was on Al Nassr’s side.
Athletic confirmed the approval in a statement: “FIFA has authorized the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) to obtain the International Transfer Certificate (ITC) from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation. Once the ITC is issued, Aymeric Laporte will be eligible to register with Athletic Club.”
This will be Laporte’s second time at Athletic Club, where his professional career began. In his first stint, he played 222 matches, scored 10 goals, and helped the team win the Spanish Super Cup in 2015 against Barcelona.
Laporte won the 2015 Spanish Super Cup against Barcelona with Athletic Club. (Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Laporte’s farewell message
Laporte joined Al Nassr in 2023 after a successful period at Manchester City, where he won the UEFA Champions League. While at Al Nassr, he made 69 appearances and scored nine goals, but did not win any titles.
With rumors about his departure growing, coach Jorge Jesus omitted Laporte from the squad for the club’s European preseason tour and the trip to Hong Kong for the Saudi Super Cup.
Before leaving, Laporte shared a message on X (formerly Twitter): “Dear Al Nassr fans, my time at this great club has come to an end. I’m grateful for this experience filled with memories and growth, and proud to have contributed to the SPL’s rise on the world stage. It’s been an honor to play alongside many top players. I wish the club nothing but success in the future.”