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Urko Izeta is facing a defining moment in his career: the Athletic Club forward has barely played minutes this season and is set to be one of the players loaned out in the upcoming winter transfer window.
The striker, who excelled in Segunda División last season, could return to the second division to regain prominence. Urko Izeta left behind a dream season at CD Mirandés where he scored 15 goals and provided three assists.
Urko Izeta and Athletic Club: expectations vs reality
The Athletic Club board renewed Urko Izeta's contract until June 2027, granting him first-team status after his explosive campaign in Segunda División.
However, this season Urko Izeta has only played three matches, accumulating around thirty minutes on the field.
The lack of opportunities has raised concerns among Athletic Club fans, questioning the management of the forward and his integration into the first team's plans.
Path to loan move: offers from Segunda División
Given the lack of playing time, Urko Izeta sees favorably a loan that would allow him to play regularly and assert himself in attack.
Several Segunda División teams have shown interest in adding the Athletic Club forward, with Granada being the main suitor, eager to benefit from his scoring ability.
Those close to him believe that a loan in January could benefit all parties involved: the player gains rhythm, Athletic Club frees up a potentially promising player, and his destination club gains an experienced striker in the division.
Why does Urko Izeta need a change of scenery?
The reality for Urko Izeta is apparent: a long contract with Athletic Club but almost no playing time to showcase his skills in LaLiga. His previous success in Segunda División contrasts with his current stagnation.
In the 2024-25 season in the second division, his performance was outstanding, proving his scoring prowess.
Now, a loan appears to be the only way for Urko Izeta to maintain his competitive edge and regain the confidence he showed during his time at Mirandés. Athletic Club needs this process to be successful to assess his future in the first team.
If Urko Izeta secures the loan, the Bilbao club will retain his contract until 2027, giving him the opportunity to succeed and return with more credentials.
Urko Izeta stands at the crossroads of his young career: waiting for his chance at Athletic Club or going out to play regularly in Segunda División. The winter transfer market will be crucial in determining his path and future role.
The outcome for Urko Izeta will likely come in the following days when it is confirmed whether his loan move to the Segunda División will materialize.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El descarte del Athletic Club que saldrá cedido en enero
