Nico, Iñaki Williams, Sancet and More Ruled Out as Injury-Hit Athletic Club Seek Old Trafford Miracle

Nico Williams will not be part of Athletic Club’s squad for their Europa League semifinal second leg against Manchester United at Old Trafford, as the winger continues to recover from pubalgia.

Although his condition is improving, he remains unfit for competitive action. His absence is a major setback for the Spanish side, especially given the already daunting task of overturning a 3–0 deficit from the first leg.

Adding to their troubles, Nico’s older brother, Iñaki Williams, is also ruled out due to ongoing muscular discomfort. Oihan Sancet, the team’s top scorer this season with 17 goals, won’t feature either after suffering a hamstring injury that has kept him out of training. These three absentees strip the team of much of its attacking firepower.

Athletic’s problems don’t end there. Goalkeeper Unai Simón is unavailable, forcing Julen Agirrezabala to step up once again in a high-pressure setting. Meanwhile, Dani Vivian is suspended, weakening the defense just when it’s most needed. In light of these setbacks, head coach Ernesto Valverde has turned to the club's academy, calling up youngsters like Varela, Olabarrieta, and Rego to help fill the gaps.

Despite the overwhelming odds, the team will draw strength from memories of their memorable win at Old Trafford in 2012. Backed by more than 3,000 traveling fans, they’ll be hoping to script another unforgettable night, even if the circumstances suggest it would take a miracle.