Eibar has announced the return of Unai Elgezabal, signed for one season after terminating his contract with Levante. The 33‑year‑old defender arrives as the fifth summer signing, ready to cover Imanol García de Albéniz's injury and strengthen the club's back line.
What does his return mean for the defence?
Elgezabal, who previously spent time in Eibar's academy, brings experience after spells at Alcorcón, Numancia, Burgos and Levante, where he helped achieve promotion to La Liga in 2024. His record includes 40 goals scored and 31 conceded this season, a +9 goal difference that highlights his defensive reliability and leadership.
Why did Eibar need this signing?
The injury to Imanol García de Albéniz forced César Palacios to look for an urgent solution. With Elgezabal, manager José Luis Mendilibar regains a trusted left‑back option, complementing Bernat and allowing Arbilla to focus on other defensive duties. The club, which finished the 2025 season 8th with 55 points (15 wins, 10 draws, 10 losses), aims to solidify its league standing.
What is the short‑term plan?
Elgezabal will be presented on Thursday at Ipurua at 13:30 and could feature in the final pre‑season friendly against a team from Irún. With the next league match against Eldense at home scheduled for March 7, 2027, the signing arrives at the perfect moment to shore up the defence before the new campaign begins.
What expectations does the club have?
The manager trusts that Elgezabal will regain his pre‑injury form after the meniscus tear at the end of 2025 and provide stability to a defensive area that has seen many changes this summer. The veteran's arrival aims not only to fill a gap but also to pass on leadership to the younger defenders emerging in the squad.
