Alaves HubAlaves has confirmed the departure of veteran goalkeeper Raúl Fernández, who finished the campaign under the shadow of starter Antonio Sivera. The announcement, made on Wednesday, highlights the club's gratitude for his work, commitment and professionalism during his spell.
What happened to Raúl Fernández?
Raúl Fernández, a seasoned Basque goalkeeper, saw his involvement reduced in the 2023‑24 season, limited to five Copa del Rey matches. In four of those games he kept a clean sheet, showing reliability when called upon. The club announced that his contract will not be renewed and he will leave the squad at the end of the season.
Why is the exit important for Alaves?
Fernández's departure opens a spot for the goalkeepers returning from loan. Adrián Rodríguez, coming from Real Zaragoza, and Jesús Owono, from Andorra, are waiting to join the squad. Both arrive with the expectation of competing for the backup role and potentially the starting position in case of injuries or rotations.
What statistics stand out from his last season?
| Competition | Matches played | Clean sheets |
|---|---|---|
| Copa del Rey | 5 | 4 |
These figures illustrate the limited chance Fernández had, but also his effectiveness when on the pitch. Alaves management emphasized that, despite the scarce playing time, his experience was valuable for the group.
What comes next for the club?
With Fernández's door closed, Alaves will focus on integrating Rodríguez and Owono. Both must adapt quickly to the team's style and the demands of La Liga. The coach believes internal competition will raise the level of the goal and provide tactical options for upcoming matches.
The club also reiterated its commitment to players leaving the roster, ensuring that public appreciation is part of a culture of respect and professionalism. Fernández's farewell marks the end of an era and the start of a new phase for the Alaves net.
