Athletic Bilbao allay Nico Williams injury fears

Spanish outfit Athletic Bilbao have provided update on Nico Williams after succumbing to an injury setback in their La Liga clash against Valencia.

Williams, who has Ghanaian roots, was forced off in the 36th minute as Athletic Bilbao succumbed to a narrow defeat to Valencia at the San Mames Stadium.

After the match, his senior brother Inaki Williams, who replaced him disclosed the seriousness of the injury.

However, subsequent medical examinations brought much-needed relief. Following MRI scans, the pacey winger has been diagnosed with a moderate hamstring injury in his left leg.

The Spanish outfit estimates a recovery period of around three weeks, with the winger expected to return in time for the World Cup, provided his rehabilitation progresses without setbacks.

The update comes as a major relief for the Spanish national team, who view Williams as an important attacking option heading into the tournament.

If recovery continues as planned, the winger could even be available for Spain’s opening World Cup fixture against Cape Verde national football team.

For now, both club and country will closely monitor his rehabilitation, with optimism growing that one of Spain’s key attacking threats will be fit for football’s biggest stage.

The 22-year-old has already endured a challenging campaign disrupted by fitness problems. Earlier this season, Williams spent around 85 days on the sidelines due to various injuries.

Williams has become one of Spain’s most important attacking weapons thanks to his blistering pace, fearless dribbling, and ability to destabilise defences in one-on-one situations.

His explosiveness on the wing has made him a key figure in Spain’s attacking setup, with many expecting him to play a central role at the upcoming tournament. He was instrumental in Spain’s victory over England to win the European Championship in 2024.

The expanded 2026 World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with 48 nations set to compete for the coveted trophy.