OFFICIAL: FIFA bans transfers for clubs that have never been relegated

Spanish football has just received shocking news as Athletic Bilbao has officially been banned by FIFA from registering new players for three consecutive transfer windows.

The information was announced by FIFA on its disciplinary management system for clubs violating player registration regulations. Accordingly, Athletic Bilbao has been placed on the list of clubs prohibited from registering players for three periods: summer 2026, winter 2027, and summer 2027. This is one of the strictest sanctions imposed by the world football governing body on clubs that commit transfer or financial misconduct.

According to MARCA, the penalty stems from a dispute over the loan deal of goalkeeper Alex Padilla. Specifically, Athletic is accused of allowing the Mexican goalkeeper (who has been capped three times for the national team) to join Pumas UNAM in January 2025 on a loan contract worth 400,000 euros. However, the La Liga club later activated an early recall clause mid-season, paying around 300,000 euros. This detail is believed to have caused disagreements over rights and legal procedures.

If the sanction remains in effect, Athletic Bilbao will face significant challenges in squad strength over the coming seasons. Despite being renowned for their policy of only using players native to or trained in the Basque region, the San Mamés club regularly conducts necessary transfers to strengthen squad depth.

Last summer, they signed right-back Jesus Areso from Osasuna and brought central defender Aymeric Laporte back from Al-Nassr. These moves show Athletic’s proactive approach in the transfer market, despite the club’s unique development model.

Currently, Athletic Bilbao is reportedly working with FIFA to clarify issues related to Alex Padilla’s case. With the La Liga competition becoming increasingly fierce, the risk of being "frozen" from transfers for three straight windows will undoubtedly put substantial pressure on the Basque club’s competitive ambitions.

Athletic Bilbao is one of Spain’s most historic clubs, ranking just behind Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona in terms of achievements. The Basque club has won La Liga 8 times and claimed the Copa del Rey 24 times. Notably, like Real Madrid and Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao has never been relegated from Spain’s top division.