After Confirming Europe’s Return, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Teammate Informs Al Nassr of Desired Destination- Reports

There is going to be a typically busy summer for Al Nassr. With the 2023-24 season coming to an end, some changes are expected within the squad ahead of the new campaign. However, instead of new arrivals to bolster the Knights of the Najd, a departure may be on the horizon. After expressing his desire to return to Europe, Aymeric Laporte has reportedly informed Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. about his new destination.

It was just last summer, that the center-back parted ways with Manchester City to become part of the Saudi exodus. However, it seems his time in Riyadh has led him to seek opportunities back in Europe. As per Marca, Laporte is open to making a return to his former side, Athletic Bilbao. The Spanish side’s President Jon Uriarte earlier expressed his desire to re-sign the 29-year-old from Etihad last year but failed. While this year the window is open to bring the French-born player back to Estadio de San Mamés, there is a catch!

Laporte would be required to negotiate his contract termination with Al Nassr as he is bound to play for Luis Castro and Co. until 2026. Notably, Laporte has been with Los Leones since 2010, having joined its U-19 side from French team Bayonne U19. While he was sent on a short spell to CD Basconia and then played for Bilbao’s second-division team, he cemented his spot as a regular starter in the first team. 

Between 2012-2018, he made over 222 appearances for Athletic Bilbao, the highest for any club he played throughout his career. He also won the 15/16 Spanish Super Cup. Perhaps he is keen to reunite with Ernesto Valverde’s side. In fact, judging by his earlier remarks, he is quite desperate for the same. 

How Aymeric Laporte has turned sour over his decision to join Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. at Al Nassr? 

Aymeric Laporte seems quite adamant about leaving the Saudi Pro League for Europe. Earlier, the Spanish international even said, “I will very likely return to Europe in the future,” suggesting that his move to Al Nassr isn’t the final chapter of his career. Interestingly, this revelation was made just days after former Liverpool star Jordan Henderson left Al Ettifaq in the recent January transfer window to sign for Ajax. But Laporte’s desire to leave is due to a shocking explanation. 

The former City star is ‘disappointed‘ with his stay, one of the reasons among them is the difficulties he faced while negotiating his contract. “They [Saudi clubs] haven’t made it too easy for us. In fact, there are many players who are unhappy… They really go their own way,” he revealed in an interview.

Perhaps he has finally realized that Saudi Arabia wasn’t the ideal place for him, despite terming his decision to join Al Nassr a ‘right‘ decision. And here we are, discussing his exit. 

Will Aymeric Laporte be successful in his escape from the Gulf Country and join Athletico Bilbao? Let us know in the comments.