Spain can breathe a sigh of relief as Nico Williams has been cleared for the 2026 World Cup. According to Marca, the Athletic Bilbao star is not only expected to make the squad but could even feature in Spain’s opening match against Cape Verde.
The 23-year-old winger sparked fears of missing the tournament after limping off just 35 minutes into Bilbao’s clash with Valencia on Sunday. However, medical tests have provided a positive outlook for “La Roja” fans.
Key Recovery Details:
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The Injury: Athletic Bilbao confirmed a strain in his left hamstring, describing it as “non-threatening” for his World Cup participation.
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Timeline: Williams is expected to be sidelined for approximately 3 weeks, making him eligible for the June 15th opener.
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Tactical Role: While he might start on the bench against Cape Verde to ensure full fitness, manager Luis de la Fuente views him as indispensable.
Despite a season plagued by injuries—totaling 6 goals and 7 assists in 32 matches—Williams remains a cornerstone of the national team. His partnership with Lamine Yamal is considered the “engine” of Spain’s offensive strategy for the upcoming global showpiece.
