Athletic Club has recently released a statement concerning the health of their star player, Nico Williams, who is currently linked with a potential summer transfer to Arsenal. This news comes at an inconvenient time as the club navigates through crucial fixtures and the upcoming transfer window.
Williams, 22, has been making waves in European football after contributing two goals and one assist to Spain's Euro 2024 victory. His impressive performance sparked interest from several elite clubs across Europe including Arsenal. However, he chose to stay with his boyhood club Athletic where he continued his upward trajectory scoring 11 goals and providing seven assists this season.
Despite his decision to stay put last year, speculation about his future continues as another summer transfer window approaches.
Latest performance & injury concerns
Williams' most recent contribution was a decisive goal in the Europa League quarter-final against Rangers which set up a semi-final clash with Manchester United. Unfortunately for Athletic Club and their fans, this effort seems to have come at a cost as they confirmed that Williams is now dealing with an injury issue.
Athletic Club released statement:
"Nico Williams' medical report. The player has not been included in Ernesto Valverde's squad. Nico Williams will not travel to Madrid for the match against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium due to groin pain. The outcome is pending."
This development raises concerns for Athletic as they face losing their star talent for an important La Liga fixture against second-placed Real Madrid. Currently sitting fourth in La Liga standings themselves, Athletic will be hoping to secure Champions League football next season within the remaining seven matches. Moreover, there are also considerations regarding the Europa League tie against Man United scheduled just 11 days away from now.
Impact on potential transfer to Arsenal
From an Arsenal perspective - given that we're nearing end of season - it would be hoped that William’s injury is short-term and won't impact Mikel Arteta's summer transfer plans. The Gunners' manager is known to be a huge fan of the winger, with interest from Arsenal predating his excellent displays at Euro 2024.
Over the past year, Nico Williams has been most frequently mentioned in connection with Arsenal and Barcelona. As such, this injury update will undoubtedly be closely monitored by both clubs as they plan their summer strategies.
Nico Williams' future remains a hot topic in football circles. His recent injury adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing speculation about his potential move away from Athletic Club. Fans and pundits alike will be eagerly awaiting further updates on both his health status and transfer prospects.
