Berenguer eyes Copa semi return as Athletic prep for Rayo trip
Alex Berenguer is back in group training at Athletic Club, with the winger targeting a return for the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Real Sociedad.
Alex Berenguer is edging closer to a return for Athletic Club, just in time for what could be a defining week in their season — a Liga trip to Vallecas and a Copa del Rey semi-final crunch at Anoeta.
Back in the fold
Berenguer joined the rest of the Athletic squad for the start of Tuesday’s training session, which is a proper result given how long he’s been sidelined. The Navarran winger has been absent for a string of matches — he played the last Liga derby against Real Sociedad but then missed games against Levante, Oviedo and Elche in the league, plus the Copa tie in Valencia and the first leg of the semi-final against La Real.
What’s been keeping him out
It’s not a straightforward knock, either. Berenguer has been dealing with traumatic arthritis in the big toe on his right foot — the sort of injury that, at its worst, is genuinely debilitating, robbing him of mobility, strength and causing serious pain. He’s been managing it for months, requiring rest periods and regular injections as part of his treatment. Not ideal for a winger who relies on explosive movement.
The plan going forward
- He passed an individual fitness test on Monday evening
- Tuesday saw him working alongside the full group
- If he continues to feel good, a place in the squad for Saturday’s trip to Rayo Vallecano looks likely
- Valverde will need to manage his minutes carefully if he does travel
- The real target, though, is the Copa semi-final second leg against Real Sociedad at Anoeta on 4 March
Why this matters
Berenguer isn’t just any squad player here — he was a key figure the last time Athletic made it to a Copa final, back in 2024, when they went on to lift the trophy against Mallorca. If Athletic are going to see off Real Sociedad and book another trip to the final, having him available could be well significant.
The one cloud on the training ground? Jauregizar, who picked up a knee injury against Oviedo, was absent from Tuesday’s outdoor session with his teammates. So it’s not all good news at Lezama, but Berenguer’s return is a welcome boost.