Is Williams' Groin Injury a Major Concern for Athletic Bilbao?

Madrid (Spain), Sep 8 (NationPress) Athletic Club of Bilbao is currently in a state of apprehension regarding the groin injury sustained by winger Nico Williams during Spain's impressive 6-0 victory over Turkey in the recent FIFA World Cup qualifier. The 23-year-old had to leave the match just before halftime, visibly limping off while holding the left side of his groin.

Spain's head coach, Luis de la Fuente, expressed his disappointment afterward, stating that Williams experienced “a slight pain in his abductor and will require testing, but it appears to be a muscle issue.”

If the injury is confirmed, it would significantly impact Athletic as they prepare for a rigorous schedule ahead. The Basque club will resume La Liga action next Saturday with a derby against Alaves, followed by their Champions League opener at home against Arsenal, marking the start of a challenging stretch of seven matches within just 22 days, according to reports from Xinhua.

Williams declined offers from FC Barcelona for the second consecutive summer to remain loyal to Athletic, the club where he has spent his entire career. His outstanding early-season performance has helped Athletic to stay level with Real Madrid as the only teams to kick off the campaign with three consecutive wins.

This injury is particularly troubling as Williams ended the previous season sidelined due to a pelvic injury that caused him to miss several crucial matches. After three rounds in La Liga, Athletic Bilbao currently stands second, boasting three consecutive victories and nine points, tied with Real Madrid, but trailing on goal difference (+5 to +3).

Originally from Pamplona, Spain, Nico Williams began his senior career with Athletic's farm team, Basconia, in the 2019–20 season and has been with the main squad since 2021.

Despite Williams’ injury setback, Spain has made a strong start in their FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. With only two matches played, they have emerged as clear favorites for next summer's finals.

The reigning European champions have taken significant steps toward qualification after winning what were arguably their two toughest fixtures - against Bulgaria and Turkey. The manner of these victories has been particularly impressive, with Spain scoring three goals against Bulgaria and dominating Turkey with a 6-0 win in the traditionally difficult venue of Konya.

De la Fuente has assembled a well-rounded team that appears formidable across the board. Dean Huijsen has stepped into central defense with the confidence of a seasoned player, while full-backs Marc Cucurella and Pedro Porro provide both pace and width in attack.