Williams’ slow start to the season reflects the toll of his persistent groin injury. The winger has played just 530 minutes across all competitions, starting five games and appearing off the bench in three more which is far below expectations for a player tipped to lead Athletic’s attack this season.
Club doctors have confirmed that Williams is being treated for pubalgia, a chronic groin condition common among footballers. His recovery requires isolated training sessions and minimal team drills to prevent flare-ups, leaving him short of full fitness.
Pubalgia which is also known as a sports hernia, causes inflammation where the abdominal and adductor muscles meet near the pelvis. It is notoriously slow to heal due to the constant strain of sprinting, twisting, and shooting.
Athletic’s medical staff have consulted external specialists, exploring every option to help Williams recover. Surgery remains the last resort, but if necessary, it could sideline him for up to three months, ruling him out of both European and La Liga action.