Nico Williams is still battling a stubborn case of pubalgia, and the ongoing discomfort is putting both his form and his World Cup hopes in serious doubt, according to Marca.
The Athletic Bilbao winger, who impressively finished fifteenth in the 2024 Ballon d’Or, has not been able to reach his usual explosive level this season due to injuries.
Ahead of the clash with Sporting Lisbon, coach Ernesto Valverde admitted the reality of the situation, saying: “Right now he’s not fit.” Despite periods of rest, targeted recovery work, and specific prevention plans, the pain has not subsided. Williams and the medical staff are now evaluating all possible scenarios, including surgery, although that would only be considered a last resort and might not shorten his layoff by more than two months.
For now, conservative treatment remains the preferred route, following the example of teammates like Sancet and Dani García, who recovered from similar issues without going under the knife.
It has been a frustrating campaign: Williams missed the Super Cup, has played only three Champions League matches, and made 17 league appearances with four goals, as the injury continues to threaten both his club season and his chance to shine at the World Cup.
