Elgezabal's emotional San Mamés homecoming goal after injury comeback
Levante defender Unai Elgezabal marked his return from a two-month injury layoff with a special goal against Athletic Club in his Basque homeland.
A debut goal in Spain’s top flight, in your home region, with your family watching on after returning from a lengthy injury – it doesn’t get much sweeter than that for Levante’s Unai Elgezabal, despite his side ultimately falling to defeat.
Emotional return to action
The Basque defender made his comeback on Sunday after more than two months on the sidelines following surgery on the external meniscus in his right knee. And what a way to announce your return – finding the net against Athletic Club at the iconic San Mamés stadium, right in his Vizcaya homeland.
Elgezabal couldn’t hide his emotions after the match: “It’s been a very special goal for me. After such a long journey, to play in Primera División at San Mamés with all my family here, who are also from here, has been very special.”
Captain’s comeback
Prior to his injury setback, Elgezabal had been a mainstay in the Levante backline this season, serving as one of the team captains for the Orriols neighbourhood club. He was a regular starter under previous manager Julián Calero and continued in the first XI during the interim period when Álvaro del Moral and Vicente Iborra took charge.
Now with Luís Castro at the helm, Elgezabal will be hoping to re-establish himself as a crucial component in Levante’s battle to maintain their top-flight status.
Summer signing making his mark
The defender joined the Valencia-based outfit in summer 2024 when they were still in Spain’s second tier. He quickly proved his worth by playing a pivotal role in their promotion campaign to La Liga. His current deal with Levante runs until June 2027.
Double delight for Basque boys
Elgezabal wasn’t the only Levante player celebrating a first official goal for the club. Jon Ander Olasagasti, who arrived from Real Sociedad, also opened his account by netting Levante’s second goal late in the San Mamés clash.
Despite these individual bright spots, Levante couldn’t avoid defeat against an Athletic side in proper tasty form this season. Still, having their Basque brigade finding the back of the onion bag will give the Granotas a boost as they continue their fight for survival.