Unai Núñez signs contract renewal with Athletic Club through 2025
Unai Núñez has renewed his contact through 2025 with no release clause (AC)
For the past two years the future of Unai Núñez looked bleak. Unhappy with his role and wanting more minutes, the young defender turned down multiple renewal offers. With his contract set to expire in 2023, and a release clause of only €30 million, it seemed as though Núñez would eventually leave San Mamés.
As numerous clubs showed interest in Núñez the 22-year-old was always open about his situation. Along with publicly saying that he wanted more playing time, the defender also made it clear that his goal has always been to succeed at his boyhood club.
The ongoing situation finally came to an end on Tuesday. Athletic officially announced that Unai Núñez has signed a contract renewal through 2025. In addition, the Lezama product proved his commitment to Athletic by choosing not to include a release clause in his new contract.
“I want to succeed at Athletic,” Núñez told Athletic TV. “Renewing is an immense happiness for someone who has taken all the steps in the academy until reaching the first team. It’s a very beautiful challenge and responsibility. I will keep fighting for the crest.”
“I want to succeed at Athletic.” (AC)
President Aitor Elizegi also emphasizes the importance of the renewal. “He will be part of the present and the future of one of the most important defenses in the club’s history,” said Elizegi.
By choosing not to include a release clause, Unai Núñez becomes the seventh active player in the squad to do so. Iker Muniain, Óscar de Marcos, Mikel Balenziaga, Ibai Gómez, Raúl García, and Unai Simón have no clauses in their deals as well.
Unai Núñez joined Lezama in 2007 at the age of 10 and is currently in his fourth season with the first team. The center-back has made 79 appearances for the Zurigorri and will continue to play an important role at San Mamés in the years ahead.