Bilbao's goalkeeper Simon out for 4-5 months after wrist op

Athletic Club Bilbao's Spain international goalkeeper, Unai Simon could be out of action until Christmas after having a wrist operation, it was confirmed on Friday, reported Xinhua.

The 27-year-old last season won the 'Zamora' trophy in La Liga for the best goalkeeping record of the campaign, played in all but one of Spain's matches in their triumphal European Championship campaign.

Simon has been playing with pain for several months after a domestic accident, and the operation aims to finally end the problems in his wrist. However, the surgeon who carried out the operation advised on Spanish radio network, Cadena Ser, that he may not play again in 2024.

"He will be out for four or five months, because he has to be immobilized for two months, as that is the time it takes for the ligament to stick," explained Dr Francisco Pinal.

The doctor added that sportsmen such as Simon recover quickly "but even after four or five months, he's not going to be back to his top level."

Dr Pinal advised that the need to not disturb the ligaments on the wrist would also limit activities such as running for the goalkeeper.

The operation means Simon will miss up to 18 games in La Liga, as well as six matches as the club play in the Europa League, although he should be fit to take part in the Spanish Supercup in Saudi Arabia in January.

He will also be out of action for Spain in the UEFA Nations League, where Spain will play Switzerland and Denmark twice, as well as Serbia before the end of the year.

Julen Agirrezabala, who played in the Copa del Rey last season, will replace Simon for his club, although Julen has suffered a back injury which means he is a doubt for the start of the season, with third choice keeper, Alex Padilla (a Mexican U-23 international) could play in their opening league game, at home to Getafe.