Athletic Bilbao’s goalkeeper Unai Simon recently opened up about his recovery journey following a surgery on his right wrist. The 26-year-old Spanish international, who was part of the Euro 2024 winning squad, underwent an operation to repair a scapho-lunate ligament injury. This surgery is expected to keep him out of action for four to five months, as the damaged ligaments were fixed using pins.
“The first two days post-operation were tough and painful, but things are improving,” Simon shared in an interview with MARCA. He further explained that his wrist would remain immobilized for six to eight weeks before beginning rehabilitation. “Typically, these injuries take four to five months to heal, but if I recover sooner, that would be a bonus,” Simon added.
Before opting for surgery, Simon made a remarkable decision to delay the procedure to continue playing, despite the pain. Athletic Bilbao’s coach, Ernesto Valverde, revealed that Simon volunteered to postpone his operation when teammate Julen Agirrezabala suffered a fractured vertebrae. “When I found out that Julen was injured, I messaged Mikel Gonzalez to say I would delay my surgery if needed, but they assured me it wasn’t necessary,” Simon explained. “I’ve spoken with Julen, and he’s resting better now.”
Simon chose to delay his surgery until after the Euro 2024 tournament, even though his injury occurred the previous season. “Considering the broader context of my situation and the football environment, the best time might have been last September when the injury was severe. I could have had the operation and returned by February,” he reflected.
“But we chose to push through the season and play in the Euros, even though the wrist could have given out by March. It was risky, but I’m satisfied with the decision. I endured pain before the surgery, but who hasn’t played a season with some pain? When it became unbearable, I resorted to injections,” Simon admitted.
Simon’s recovery period marks the longest break of his career, preventing him from starting the La Liga season and competing in Athletic’s early European matches. Reflecting on this, Simon said, “I had an Achilles tendon injury in March, but that only kept me out for three weeks. I’ve been mentally prepared for this long break since the decision was made. However, it’s tough not being able to train with the team. It’s something I must accept and deal with.”
In his absence, Alex Padilla will take up the goalkeeping responsibilities at the season’s start. Simon expressed confidence in Padilla and Athletic’s Oier Gastesi, who has also been training with the first team during pre-season. “Padilla has the qualities to be a professional goalkeeper, but he needs to prove it on the pitch to gain confidence. The same goes for Gastesi. Both have excellent skills and potential,” Simon stated.
Simon’s resilience and dedication to his team exemplify his commitment to football and his teammates. His story is a testament to the sacrifices and challenges athletes face, highlighting the mental and physical strength required to excel at the highest levels.
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