Prados remains sidelined as Athletic awaits his full return

Beñat Prados returned to an Athletic Club squad call-up after nine months for the final LaLiga match against Real Madrid but stayed unused. The midfielder’s full comeback has been pushed to next season. Prados watched from the bench as Athletic fell 2-1 to Real Madrid at San Mamés. He last featured in a competitive match in December 2023. Athletic manager Ernesto Valverde confirmed Prados needs more time before regular game action. Training at Lezama continues to reintegrate him. The 25-year-old will use the summer to regain match fitness alongside teammates. His absence leaves Athletic’s midfield rotation thinner ahead of pre-season. The club has not revealed a definitive return timeline for Prados beyond next season.