Athletic face wing crisis as Nico Williams sidelined before Rayo clash
Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams will miss the Saturday 10 October clash with Rayo Vallecano after sustaining a muscle injury that is expected to keep him out for between two and three weeks. The absence also rules him out of the 17 October meeting with Valencia, further weakening the club's wing options.
Edin Terzic knows he will be without his star winger for at least the next two league fixtures. The injury forces Athletic Bilbao to miss the Saturday 10 October meeting with Rayo Vallecano and the 17 October clash with Valencia. The club’s medical team advises caution given the younger Williams’ injury history. The terms "Los" and "Deportivo" appear in the original Spanish headline.
Terzic searches for speed
Álvaro Djaló emerges as a possible replacement, having used the break to impress the German coach. The former Al‑Gharafa forward arrived with confidence after scoring for Guinea‑Bissau against Nigeria. His pace could provide the imbalance Terzic seeks on the flank.
In addition, several Lezama graduates – Christian Imga, Beñat Larrea, Iker Monreal, Simón García, Igor Oyono and Adrián Pérez – have joined first‑team training. Their involvement signals the manager’s intent to deepen the squad while Williams recovers.
Copa del Rey schedule
Athletic’s cup agenda also takes shape. The side will travel to face the winner of the AE Prat versus CF Sant Rafael tie in the first round, scheduled for 29 October. AE Prat holds a sizeable advantage after a 1‑5 victory in the first leg, though the exact kick‑off time remains unknown.
The medical staff hope Williams can reappear on 21 October against Levante, provided his recovery confirms he can play without undue risk. Until then, the club must cope with a demanding spell of away fixtures away from San Mamés.
The injury highlights the thinness of Athletic’s wing options, yet it also opens the door for Djaló and the Lezama youngsters to stake their claim. How the squad adapts will reveal whether depth can offset the loss of their prized winger.