The goalkeeper of Mexican descent made his official debut in the top circuit of Spanish football. Photo: Jovani Pérez
After more than two months of waiting, activity in the main European competitions has begun with the 2024-2025 season. One of the most anticipated was LaLiga (Spain), which had Athletic Club vs Getafe as its opening match, a match that, in turn, gave rise to talk in Mexico due to the official debut of the goalkeeper of ‘tricolor’ descent, Álex Padilla.
Having received the trust of Ernesto Valverde, at just 20 years old, Alex Padilla has managed to take a giant step in his career by making his debut as a starting goalkeeper at Athletic Club, a milestone that comes thanks to his training in the lower divisions of the Bilbao club. In addition to this, the opportunity comes from Unai Simón’s injury after Euro 2024.
The goalkeeper of Mexican descent made his official debut in the top circuit of Spanish football. Photo: X/Athletic Club
Born in Zarautz, a picturesque town in the province of Guipuzcoa in the Basque Country, the young goalkeeper is a perfect blend of local talent and Mexican heritage. Such is his connection to Mexico that he chose to represent the Aztec country in international football and was part of the U-23 team that participated in the renowned Maurice Revello tournament, formerly known as the Toulon Hopes Tournament.
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Padilla’s journey in football began in 2020 with Athletic Club II, Athletic Club’s reserve team. His outstanding performance allowed him, in 2021, to make a brief foray into Basconia, another important team in the Basque team’s structure. After his return to the main team, his performance has been a combination of security between the three sticks and a remarkable maturity for his age.
The goalkeeper of Mexican descent made his official debut in the top circuit of Spanish football. Photo: X/Athletic Club
During his debut match in the top league of Spanish football, the goalkeeper was unable to leave his goal empty-handed after conceding a goal from Chrisantus Uche in the 66th minute, thus sealing a 1-1 draw at the Nuevo San Mamés. It should be remembered that, following Unai Simón’s operation, the return of the Spanish goalkeeper is expected in mid-December.