An injury to Nico Williams, the Athletic Bilbao and Spain international winger, has sparked serious concern within the Basque club and the Spanish Football Federation after he collapsed during a shocking 1-0 loss to Valencia at San Mamés.
The distressing moment came in the 35th minute when Williams grabbed the back of his left thigh (hamstring) following a painful movement. He was seen gesturing to the medical staff, appearing to say, “This can’t be happening, man.”
Even more alarming was his exit from the dressing room—either at halftime or after the match—where he was clearly limping.
The timing could hardly be worse. Athletic Bilbao are fighting for European spots, and the 2026 World Cup is just one month away, amplifying worries across all parties involved.
After the game, his brother Inaki Williams spoke to the media with a heavy tone: “It’s very worrying given the current stage of the season. We have to wait and hope it’s not serious. He will be out for the coming days, and there’s not much time left until the World Cup. He told me he has never felt this kind of pain before. We have to wait and hope the injury is as light as possible.”
Coach Ernesto Valverde confirmed the injury is related to the hamstring, saying, “It’s tough for us not to have him available at this crucial stage.”
Williams is expected to undergo thorough medical tests early this week to determine the severity. With only three league games remaining, it seems unlikely he will play again for Athletic this season. Spain boss Luis de la Fuente will also be closely monitoring the medical report, given the World Cup’s proximity and Williams’ critical role for the national team.
Key concerns: The injury occurred in the 35th minute of the match; Williams was seen clutching his hamstring and limping afterward; his brother stated it was “pain he never felt before”; the World Cup is only a month away; medical tests are pending to assess the damage.