FIFA bends rule, allowing Aymeric Laporte to seal his Al-Nassr exit

FIFA has finally intervened on the issue that Athletic Club felt was an injustice. The international football governing body finally approved Aymeric Laporte’s transfer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr back to Bilbao, leading to the matter being resolved in a hassle-free way. The deal initially collapsed on the deadline day after documents from Saudi Arabia reportedly arrived too late. However, following days of uncertainty, FIFA has now reversed its decision, providing the green light.For 31-year-old Laporte, it is more than just another move. This is a return to his boyhood club, where he got his identity before Manchester City came calling. Athletic fans have long remembered him as one of their own, and his comeback on a three-year contract is being celebrated as a reunion that almost collapsed.The saga also showcased how FIFA can go with exceptions when logic and emotions weigh more than documented regulations. Initially, they rejected Athletic’s appeal, leaving the Spanish side and millions of fans frustrated. However, on Thursday, the decision was overturned, clearing the way for Laporte to don the red-and-white stripes again.What began as a straightforward transfer quickly turned into a tense waiting game for Aymeric Laporte. On September 1, 2025, Athletic Bilbao believed they had their man, but Al-Nassr’s failure to send through the final paperwork before the deadline shut the move down.Bilbao refused to accept defeat. They appealed to FIFA, urging them to consider the circumstances and allow an exception. At first, FIFA refused, but persistence paid off. After a fresh review of the entire situation, the RFEF (Spanish federation) was authorized to request Laporte’s International Transfer Certificate from Saudi Arabia.Athletic summed it up in their statement: “Once this ITC has been issued, Aymeric Laporte will be able to register with Athletic Club.” Relief swept through Bilbao, where the defender remains a fan favorite even after years.Laporte’s bond with Athletic Bilbao stretches back more than a decade. He joined their youth academy in 2010, broke into the first team in 2012, and went on to make over 220 appearances in six seasons. His composure on the ball and defensive awareness made him one of La Liga’s most sought-after defenders before Manchester City secured his signature in 2018.At City, he enjoyed his peak years, winning 13 trophies, including five Premier League titles under Pep Guardiola. In 2023, he moved to Al-Nassr to join Cristiano Ronaldo and other stars in Saudi Arabia. But only a year later, the pull of San Mamés Stadium proved to be too strong.Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde now has a major boost ahead of a busy schedule. Laporte is expected to be available for Saturday’s La Liga match against Alavés, and his experience will be vital when Bilbao kicks off their Champions League campaign against Arsenal on September 16, 2025.For Laporte, this isn’t just about playing again in Spain; it’s also about reconvening with a club and a city that gave him everything. What looked like a deal lost to red tape has turned into a story of persistence, and for Athletic’s supporters, the return of their former leader at the back feels like a victory in itself.