Padilla misses World Cup, Athletic to resolve goalkeeper futures | OneFootball

Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre has selected goalkeepers Raúl Rangel of Chivas, Guillermo Ochoa of AEL Limassol and Carlos Acevedo of Santos Laguna for this summer’s World Cup, staged in Mexico, the United States and Canada. The decision leaves Athletic’s Álex Padilla out.

According to AS, the former Pumas goalkeeper had been on the provisional list. The goalkeeper from Zarautz holds dual nationality. He now faces a summer without the tournament and with his future to clarify despite a contract running until June 2029.

Athletic must manage four senior keepers under contract, including B-team player Mikel Santos, who is very likely to go on loan to Segunda División. Julen Agirrezabala returns from his loan after Valencia did not trigger a 12 million buy-back, and Unai Simón remains first choice for Spain and club.

With new head coach Edin Terzic to deliver his verdict, the recruitment department will need to streamline the group. Options include a consensual sale if offers arrive or another loan for either Padilla or Agirrezabala.

Padilla accepted a back-up role this season, cutting short a desired loan to Pumas, and featured in Copa ties. He retains strong market value and reputation in Liga MX, a league where he has repeatedly said he is happy.

Source: AS