Manchester United’s quest for Europa League glory has potentially received a significant boost with news that Athletic Club’s star winger Nico Williams is battling a groin injury ahead of their upcoming semi-final clash.
The Spanish international, who has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting attacking talents this season, missed Athletic’s weekend fixture against Real Madrid due to the injury. The Basque club has not provided a timeline for his recovery, creating uncertainty about his availability for the crucial European tie against United.
With the first leg scheduled for May 1 in Bilbao and the return fixture at Old Trafford a week later, Williams faces a race against time to regain fitness. His potential absence would remove a major threat from Athletic’s attack, as the 21-year-old’s pace and creativity have been instrumental in their impressive European campaign.
United manager Ruben Amorim has made no secret of prioritizing the Europa League, with Champions League qualification through domestic placement now mathematically impossible. The Portuguese coach rested several key players during Sunday’s 1-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers, including Diogo Dalot, who would likely be tasked with containing Williams if the Spaniard recovers in time.
“The Europa League is now our primary focus,” Amorim confirmed. “We must be strategic with our squad management to give ourselves the best chance of success.”
Securing Champions League football through Europa League triumph would significantly impact United’s summer transfer plans. The additional revenue and prestige would enhance their ability to attract top talent, potentially including players of Williams’ caliber, who has been linked with several Premier League clubs.
Athletic Club, meanwhile, will hope their medical team can work miracles to have their prized asset available for what represents their biggest European matches in over a decade, as they aim to reach the final at their home stadium, San Mamés.
