Athletic right-back spot still unsettled after De Marcos exit | OneFootball

Athletic's right-back remains unclaimed, with Areso, Hugo Rincón and Johaneko rotating since De Marcos retired at the end of 2024-25 to join Terzic's staff, as reported by as.com.

On the opposite flank Yuri holds the shirt, alongside the immovable Laporte. With Vivian awaited, Yeray has logged the most minutes at centre-back, while Paredes is edging in.

Pre-season brought a clear decision on Gorosabel, last season's most-used right-back with 2,051 minutes to Areso's 1,963 and Lekue's 1,229, who was told to find a move. Areso, a 12 million signing, arrived leaner and more diligent for Terzic's two-way brief, with competition from returning loanee Rincón and B-team graduate Johaneko, an early-season revelation.

All three featured heavily in summer and Rincón impressed, yet Areso started the opener at San Mamés against Sevilla. His mistake led to 0-3.

Rincón came in at Camp Nou and did his job despite a 2-0 defeat. Areso reclaimed the role against Celta, Atlético and Elche, then conceded a penalty that let a poor rival score.

Terzic planned to try Johaneko at right-back at Levante, but the match was postponed because of a downpour. He stuck with the idea yesterday against Alavés.

Johaneko had already started at Camp Nou on the left. He struggled on the right and was replaced at half-time by Areso, who provided endeavour and tried to add depth but lacked clarity, like the rest. Alavés had their plan to mute the lions well studied.

Source: as.com

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