Man Utd Receive Triple Injury Boost as Athletic Bilbao Confirm Absence of Key Trio Ahead of Europa League Clash
Manchester United have been handed a major boost in their bid to reach the Europa League final after Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde confirmed that three of the Spanish side’s most dangerous attackers will miss the second leg of the semi-final at Old Trafford on Thursday.
Athletic will travel to Manchester without star brothers Nico Williams and Iñaki Williams, along with their top scorer Oihan Sancet, all of whom have been ruled out due to injury. The absence of the trio significantly weakens the La Liga outfit’s attacking threat as they attempt to overturn a three-goal deficit from the first leg.
Triple Blow for Bilbao
Valverde officially named a 24-man squad on Tuesday, but the notable omissions of Nico, Iñaki, and Sancet were immediately evident — and telling.
Nico Williams
The electric winger has been a standout performer this season, both for club and country. Known for his pace, dribbling and ability to beat defenders one-on-one, Nico has been instrumental in Bilbao’s European run. His absence will come as a relief to United’s full-backs, who had been preparing for a tough night tracking his dangerous runs down the flank.
Iñaki Williams
Nico’s older brother and a consistent attacking outlet for Athletic over the years, Iñaki is sidelined due to muscular fatigue. His experience, physical presence, and versatility often make him a game-changer, especially in high-pressure European ties. With both Williams brothers missing, Bilbao’s right side of attack will look entirely different on Thursday night.
Oihan Sancet
Perhaps the biggest loss for the Basque side is Sancet, their top scorer this season. The 24-year-old attacking midfielder has been crucial in linking up play and finding goals in key moments. His injury takes away a major goal-scoring option and leaves Valverde with fewer tactical solutions in midfield and the final third.
Advantage Manchester United
The news will be welcomed by United manager Ruben Amorim, whose side carries a 3–0 advantage from the first leg in Spain. Despite United’s own injury problems — with Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, and Victor Lindelöf missing — the Red Devils now find themselves in a stronger position to control and
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