Peru Nolaskoain was one of the biggest revelations for Athletic at the beginning of last season. The teenager was called up to train with the first team and, despite being one of the most promising young midfielders, was moved to center-back by manager Eduardo Berizzo. Nolaskoain started the first game of the season in place of an injured Iñigo Martinez and would even score on his debut.

The first few weeks of the season saw Nolaskoain become a household name, but his minutes would become very limited once Martinez returned from injury. Eventually, the 20-year-old began playing with Bilbao Athletic again and once Gaizka Garitano took over as the first team manager Nolaskoain never saw the field again for Athletic. Despite looking strong in defense, Garitano only views Nolaskoain as a midfielder.

This summer Nolaskoain is determined to earn his place at Athletic. He wants to succeed in the first team but also recognizes that he will have to leave if he isn’t going to play regular minutes. A return to Bilbao Athletic has already been ruled out. Nolaskoain will face stiff competition for a role in the Athletic midfield with Dani García, Beñat, Mikel San José, Unai López, and Oihan Sancet all vying for the same positions and the decision will ultimately be up to the manager.

Garitano won’t make any quick decisions. He’s already made it clear that he will give every player the chance to prove they deserve to stay in the team. However, if Nolaskoain isn’t able to convince the Mister he will have plenty of offers coming from the Segunda. According to a report from Javier Ortiz De Lazcano of El Correo, Real Zaragoza have already identified Nolaskoain as one of their top summer targets, though they know they will have to wait until his situation at Athletic is decided.

Peru Nolaskoain wants to become an important player at Athletic. He’s already showed the quality that could see him become one of the stars of San Mamés and still has plenty of room to grow and develop. A loan move to the Segunda could be the perfect opportunity for the 20-year-old to prove he’s ready for the first team, but he’s determined to convince Garitano now. Meanwhile, several clubs will wait in hopes of signing the Lezama product for the upcoming season.

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