Overview

• Athletic confirmed that FIFA authorized the Spanish federation to obtain Aymeric Laporte’s International Transfer Certificate from Saudi Arabia.
• Once the certificate is issued, Athletic can register the defender to play in all competitions, including the Champions League.
• FIFA initially denied the request on September 3 after Al‑Nassr’s documentation arrived late, preventing completion in the Transfer Matching System.
• Laporte, supported by the AFE, appealed by submitting proof of a signed contract and an agreement between the clubs before the deadline.
• The move bolsters a thin centre‑back unit following Unai Egiluz’s cruciate ligament injury and Yeray Álvarez’s 10‑month suspension.