FC Lugano loses its first‑choice goalkeeper Saipi, who despite a contract until 2027 moves to Spain. The 24‑year‑old Albanian has made 48 appearances for the club and now faces a new challenge in the Spanish Segunda División.

Why is Saipi leaving the club?

The transfer is surprising because Saipi signed a deal through 2027 in the summer of 2024. His agent says he sought more playing time and a different sporting environment. The Spanish side, unnamed, offered an attractive package covering both financial and sporting terms. Saipi himself stressed that he "wanted a new challenge" and "the chance to grow in another league".

How will this affect FC Lugano's defense?

FC Lugano now must find a replacement quickly, as the back line has already kept 0 goals this season – a record that leaves the team on the 2nd place with no points (League standing: 2nd in Super League, 0 pts.). Losing the experienced keeper could jeopardise stability, especially ahead of the next match versus Lausanne (away, 2026‑09‑20). Coach Leonardo Semplici says the squad must "stay strong together" while the sporting department searches for a suitable successor.

What does the move mean for Saipi's career?

In Spain, Saipi is expected to start as the first‑choice keeper and has the opportunity to prove himself in a competitive league. The move could raise his market value and perhaps lead to a later return to Switzerland. Observers view him as a long‑term project that may extend beyond his current contract.

What comes next?

FC Lugano is now intensively preparing for the away game against Lausanne on 20 September 2026. The team hopes to stabilise the defence without Saipi and defend the second‑place standing. At the same time, the club's management is actively hunting for a new goalkeeper to fill the gap and achieve season objectives.