Nico Williams returns to full training with Athletic Bilbao

Nico Williams has returned to full training with Athletic Bilbao after recovering from a left thigh muscle injury sustained while on international duty with Spain, although his availability for Wednesday’s match against Levante remains uncertain.

The winger rejoined his team-mates during Monday’s group session after a period of treatment and individual training. His return marks an important step in his recovery, but the club’s medical staff will need to assess his physical condition before confirming when he can return to competitive action.

Williams has missed three matches since picking up the injury, sitting out Athletic Bilbao’s fixtures against Rayo Vallecano, Real Sociedad and Valencia.

His absence has been a setback for the Basque club, with the Spanish international offering an important attacking threat through his pace, dribbling ability and capacity to create opportunities in the final third.

The 23-year-old had been working towards a return following his injury, initially undergoing treatment before gradually resuming work on the training pitch. His progress has now allowed him to rejoin the rest of the squad for collective training.

However, returning to full training does not automatically mean he will be ready to feature in the next match. Athletic Bilbao must first establish whether he has recovered sufficiently to cope with the physical demands of competitive football.

Levante match remains uncertain

Athletic Bilbao face Levante on Wednesday, but Williams’ involvement in the fixture remains in doubt as he continues his recovery.

The club are expected to take a cautious approach before deciding whether to include the winger, with his fitness and readiness likely to determine the timing of his return.

Having already missed three games, Williams will be hoping to return to action as soon as possible. However, the priority will be ensuring that he has recovered fully from the muscle problem sustained during international duty.

A premature return could risk aggravating the injury and prolonging his absence, making the assessment of his condition an important part of the decision-making process.

His return to group training nevertheless provides encouragement for Athletic Bilbao as they look towards their upcoming fixtures. The winger remains an important attacking option, and his availability would give the team another option in the final third.

For now, his participation against Levante has not been confirmed. The club will continue to monitor his progress before making a final decision on whether he is ready to return to competitive football.

Williams’ recovery will remain a key consideration for Athletic Bilbao as they look to bring one of their main attacking players back into the squad without rushing him into action.