World Cup 2026: Nico Williams blasts ‘unnecessary’ tackle after fresh injury leaves Spain sweating

Spain winger Nico Williams has described his latest injury setback as “one of the worst days of my life” after accusing Uruguay of losing control during their World Cup exit, leaving the European champions anxiously awaiting news on his fitness for the knockout rounds.

The 23-year-old suffered a muscle injury after a heavy challenge from Nicolás de la Cruz during Spain’s 1-0 Group H victory over Uruguay, a result that sealed top spot for Luis de la Fuente’s side while ending the South Americans’ tournament.

Tensions boiled over in the closing stages, with Agustín Canobbio later shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsí as frustration spilled over.

Taking to social media after the match, Williams expressed his disappointment following another injury setback in what has already been a difficult campaign.

“Today is one of the worst days of my life. I am injured again after a very difficult year,” he wrote.

The Athletic Bilbao star also criticised the challenge that forced him off, suggesting it stemmed from Uruguay’s frustration as their World Cup campaign came to an end.

“Yesterday, I suffered a new injury following an incident where a fellow professional acted out of frustration, unhappiness, and sadness over the situation he was going through.”

“In my opinion, it was a play that could have been avoided, as it was completely unnecessary. But this won’t stop me.”

The Spanish Football Federation later confirmed Williams had sustained a “moderate” muscle injury. While he has been ruled out of Spain’s Round of 32 fixture, the diagnosis leaves open the possibility of a return later in the tournament should La Roja continue their title charge.

Spain also received encouraging news regarding Yeremy Pino after medical examinations ruled out a fractured collarbone. The Crystal Palace midfielder is now expected to recover in time to feature again if Spain advance.

Even so, Williams’ absence is a significant setback for De la Fuente, whose options in wide attacking areas are already stretched. The winger has endured an injury-hit season with Athletic Bilbao and was carefully managed throughout the group stage, making only substitute appearances in all three matches.

Barcelona star Lamine Yamal is still being eased back after a hamstring problem and has yet to complete a full match in more than two months, while new Liverpool signing Víctor Muñoz has not featured at the tournament because of fitness concerns.

Having topped Group H, Spain will now face either Austria or Algeria in Los Angeles on Thursday, hoping their squad depth can compensate for another cruel injury blow to one of their most dangerous attacking players.