Athletic rule out surgery for Nico Williams but winger faces weeks on sidelines
The Spain international is battling a persistent pubic injury with Athletic Club consulting multiple specialists to avoid going under the knife.
Bilbao’s flying winger Nico Williams is facing an extended spell on the treatment table as Athletic Club navigate the tricky waters of his ongoing pubic injury problems.
Specialists consulted as surgery ruled out
The Spain international has been struggling with a pubic injury (pubalgia) that’s severely limiting his effectiveness on the pitch. Athletic’s sporting director Mikel González revealed the club has already consulted four specialists about Williams’ condition and may seek further expert opinions.
While surgery remains technically possible, it’s very much the nuclear option that both player and club are desperate to avoid:
“These days, pubic injuries are rarely operated on because it leads to a loss of speed and acceleration. Surgery doesn’t guarantee 100% recovery and would sideline the player for three to six months,” González explained.
Current treatment plan
Athletic are taking a cautious approach with their prized asset, implementing a treatment protocol that aims to:
- Make Williams available for selection when possible
- Minimize disruption to the team
- Strengthen the affected area
If the current therapy doesn’t produce the desired results, Williams will need to take an extended break - though still significantly shorter than post-surgery recovery would require.
Playing through pain
González painted a picture of a player putting club before self. Williams has apparently been battling through considerable discomfort since September, when he suffered a left adductor injury while on international duty.
The director revealed a conversation from last summer where Williams insisted that “Athletic and the club are the priority over the World Cup” - a statement that will surely endear him further to the San Mamés faithful.
Long-term concerns
What’s particularly worrying for Athletic supporters is the roller-coaster nature of Williams’ availability this season. The winger has been in and out of the team, with his explosive pace and trickery noticeably hampered when he does make it onto the pitch.
With Athletic still competing on multiple fronts, including their upcoming Copa del Rey semi-final against Barcelona, managing Williams’ condition becomes even more crucial for Ernesto Valverde’s side.
The club is clearly asking for patience from fans as they navigate this delicate situation with one of their most valuable players.