Bilbao, Spain – Athletic Club defender Aymeric Laporte has revisited a controversial social media post from after Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, revealing he had no hesitation in publishing it despite initial concerns from team press staff. The 31-year-old center-back responded to criticism of his form with a pointed tweet following the tournament win, a moment he now says he embraced without second-guessing.
Laporte’s journey back to Athletic Club, after stints with Manchester City and Al-Nassr, has been well-documented. His return to the Basque Country in September 2025 followed a period of scrutiny during his time with the Spanish national team, particularly regarding his eligibility and perceived place in the starting lineup. Some questioned whether his move to Al-Nassr impacted his form and suitability for La Roja.
The Tweet and the Backlash
During Euro 2024, Laporte faced criticism from some corners, including comments from Willy Bárcenas questioning the inclusion of French-born players in the Spanish squad. Fans also voiced concerns about his selection while playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. Following Spain’s triumph, Laporte shared a tweet referencing critical articles from El Confidencial, Javier Maroto of SER, and Alfredo Relaño of diario AS, all of which had questioned his performance. He simply captioned the compilation: “El resto es historia” – “The rest is history.”
Speaking recently to MARCA, Laporte explained his rationale. “I didn’t think about it at all,” he said. “In fact, the press officers were a little scared, but it was what came out at that moment, naturally. It was the moment for it, because I don’t think I was going to have another one like it. So I took advantage of the moment and enjoyed it.”
Impact on Family and Personal Reflection
The defender acknowledged the impact the criticism had on his family. “When they talk badly about you, it affects the environment above all: family, children, parents. They are more attentive to what is happening around and it can affect them more. They ask you questions and you have to answer. I understand that Notice different opinions, but I don’t think I have given too many reasons to doubt.”
Laporte even admitted to questioning his own performance during the period of intense scrutiny. “When they criticize you so much, you end up wondering if you have done something so wrong. I think I have given my best, I have nothing to reproach myself for, because I am giving everything and I am not doing anything wrong.”
Return to Athletic Club and Continued National Team Role
Laporte’s move back to Athletic Club has been seen as a positive step in his career, allowing him to return to the club where he first made a name for himself. He had previously made 222 appearances for Athletic Bilbao between 2012 and 2018 before his transfer to Manchester City. His contract with Athletic Club extends through 2028, signaling a long-term commitment to the club.
The center-back has earned 44 caps for Spain as of November 2025, and was a key part of the team that won the UEFA European Championship in 2024. He also featured in the 2023 UEFA Nations League winning squad. His international career began with appearances for France at various youth levels, including the under-17, under-18, under-19, and under-21 teams.
Laporte’s willingness to address criticism head-on, as demonstrated by his post-Euro 2024 tweet, highlights a confident and resilient character. His return to familiar surroundings at Athletic Club provides a stable platform for him to continue his career, both at the club level and with the Spanish national team. The defender’s story is a reminder of the pressures faced by professional athletes and the importance of self-belief in the face of adversity.
Athletic Club will next face Girona on April 5th at the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao. The match is scheduled to begin at 4:15 PM local time (3:15 PM UTC). Fans can follow updates on the club’s official website and social media channels.
