Alex Padilla facing make-or-break cup clash in León
Athletic Club goalkeeper Alex Padilla prepares for rare start in Copa del Rey tie against Cultural Leonesa, as Ernesto Valverde's squad travel to face Ziganda's men.
Athletic Club’s cup specialist goalkeeper Alex Padilla is set for his big chance between the sticks as the Bilbao outfit prepare for Tuesday’s Copa del Rey clash against Cultural Leonesa.
Weather improving for Athletic’s preparation
The Rojiblancos have been grafting away at their Lezama training complex under significantly improved weather conditions compared to recent days. The squad will have one final session Monday afternoon before making the journey to León by coach.
Match forecasts suggest overcast skies following morning rain, with temperatures hovering around a brisk 5°C - proper football weather, that.
Padilla’s rare opportunity
While Ernesto Valverde might shuffle his pack for the cup tie, one thing’s certain - Alex Padilla will start in goal. The Zarautz-born keeper has found his opportunities limited this season:
- Started in previous round against Ourense
- Yet to make an appearance in La Liga, Supercopa or Champions League
- Permanently in Unai Simón’s shadow for competitive fixtures
The club actually brought Padilla back early from his loan spell at Mexican side Pumas last summer, coughing up around €300,000 in compensation to terminate the agreement. This move came after Julen Agirrezabala departed on loan to Valencia, leaving Athletic needing backup between the sticks.
Tougher test awaits
Cultural Leonesa represent a step up in quality from Ourense, Athletic’s previous cup opponents. The Segunda Federación side, managed by former Athletic player and coach José Ángel Ziganda, come into the fixture having:
- Drawn their last match against Andorra
- Recorded one win, two draws and two defeats in their last five league games
- Knocked out Levante in the previous round with an early goal in the 12th minute
For Padilla, it’s a proper cup final in January - his bread and butter opportunity to show what he’s worth. With Simón firmly established as number one, these cup ties are Padilla’s only chance to get some minutes in his locker. Talk about pressure when you’re only getting one game in a blue moon!