Nico Williams Injury Worries Athletic Bilbao After Spain’s Thrilling Win
Athletic Bilbao fans are holding their breath after star winger Nico Williams picked up a groin injury during Spain’s massive 6-0 win over Turkey in the FIFA World Cup qualifier on Sunday. The 23-year-old speedster had to limp off the pitch just before halftime, grabbing his left groin in pain.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente didn’t mince words after the match. "It’s a shame," he said. Williams felt "a slight pain in his abductor," and he’ll need tests soon. It looks like a muscle problem that could sideline him.
This injury hits Athletic Bilbao hard right now. The team faces a tough stretch ahead, starting with a heated La Liga derby against Alaves next Saturday. Then comes their Champions League opener at home against Arsenal, kicking off seven matches in just 22 days. Williams has been key to their flying start this season, helping them match Real Madrid as the only teams with three straight La Liga wins. After three rounds, Athletic Bilbao sits second with nine points, level with Real Madrid but behind on goal difference (+3 vs +5).
Remember, Williams turned down big offers from FC Barcelona this summer for the second year in a row. He’s stayed loyal to Athletic Bilbao, the club he’s called home his whole career. Born in Pamplona, Spain, he started his senior journey with the club’s farm team Basconia in the 2019-20 season and joined the first team in 2021. His hot form early this season has been a game-changer, but last season’s pelvic injury kept him out of key games, so this setback feels all too familiar.
On a brighter note, Spain’s national team is on fire in the FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. Just two matches in, they’ve already crushed what many called their toughest tests: a 3-0 win away at Bulgaria and now this 6-0 demolition of Turkey in the tough Konya atmosphere. As reigning European champions, Luis de la Fuente’s squad looks like a top favorite for next summer’s World Cup finals.
De la Fuente has crafted a well-rounded team. Young defender Dean Huijsen anchors the center with veteran-like calm, while full-backs Marc Cucurella and Pedro Porro bring speed and attacking flair from the wings. Spain’s dominant performances show they’re building serious momentum for qualification.
As Athletic Bilbao waits for updates on Nico Williams’ groin injury, fans hope it’s nothing serious. This La Liga star and Spain hero has been unstoppable lately—let’s see if he bounces back quick for those big upcoming fixtures.
