Nico Williams was substituted in the 36th minute of Athletic Club's 1-0 defeat to Valencia on Sunday after sustaining a muscular injury that has immediately cast doubt over his availability for Spain's World Cup campaign. The 23-year-old left-winger limped from the field visibly distressed, reportedly saying "it can't be, it can't be" as he departed the pitch in Bilbao, prompting serious concerns among Spain's medical staff and supporters alike.
This injury represents a fresh crisis for Luis de la Fuente's squad, arriving just weeks after Lamine Yamal suffered a season-ending setback. Williams has already battled recurring groin and pubalgia issues throughout the season, limiting his effectiveness despite tallying six goals and seven assists across 32 La Liga appearances. His replacement by brother Inaki highlighted the gravity of the situation, with both on-field medics and coaching staff visibly concerned about the nature of the injury.
Spain's Winger Crisis Deepens
Spain's attacking philosophy depends heavily on their dynamic young wingers operating in the wide areas. Losing both Williams and Yamal simultaneously would fundamentally reshape La Roja's tactical approach heading into the tournament. Williams has become a cornerstone of the national setup, boasting six goals across 30 international appearances and providing crucial offensive threat down the left flank.
Athletic Club will release a detailed medical assessment on Monday, but the timeline leaves minimal room for recovery. Spain face a friendly against Peru on June 9, followed by their Group H opener against Cape Verde on June 15. Subsequent fixtures against Saudi Arabia and Uruguay follow within two weeks, meaning any player returning from significant muscular damage faces considerable risk of re-injury under tournament conditions.
The convergence of these injuries forces Spain's coaching staff into urgent contingency planning, with depth at winger positions now critically tested before one of the competition's most demanding group stages.
