Inaki Williams has confirmed in his press conference that Nico Williams will miss tomorrow’s Champions League tie against Arsenal at San Mamés.
Inaki Williams confirms Nico Williams absence
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Speaking to reporters, Inaki said:
“Tomorrow’s match will be the first in the Champions League for the majority of the squad. I’m just disappointed to do it without Nico!”
The younger Williams brother has been ruled out with an adductor injury, and his absence is a major setback for Ernesto Valverde’s side. Nico has been a key attacking outlet for Athletic, offering pace, dribbling, and directness from the left flank, qualities that would have tested Arsenal’s back line.
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Without Nico, Athletic lose their most dangerous wide threat. Expect Alex Berenguer to fill the void on the left, while Inaki Williams continues on the right-hand side. Valverde may also lean on Oihan Sancet for creativity through the middle, but the lack of Nico’s explosiveness could tilt the balance in Arsenal’s favour.
Author Opinion
For Mikel Arteta, this is an unexpected advantage. With Bukayo Saka sidelined and Martin Ødegaard a doubt, Arsenal still head into the game missing stars of their own. However, avoiding Nico Williams’ pace in transitions significantly reduces the threat level Athletic can pose on the counter.
Nico’s absence is huge. Athletic lose their most electric player on the biggest European stage, while Arsenal’s defenders likely Timber, Saliba, Hincapié, and Lewis-Skelly will have one less nightmare to deal with.
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