Ghanaian forward Inaki Williams has been ruled out of Athletic Bilbao’s crucial UEFA Europa League semifinal second-leg tie against Manchester United due to injury.
The Spanish club confirmed that their leading attacker will not make the trip to Old Trafford after sustaining a muscle issue in his right hamstring. Williams’ absence is a major blow to Bilbao’s hopes of overturning a 3-0 first-leg deficit and reaching the final.
“Inaki Williams is not included in the squad list for the trip to Manchester. The striker has not been called up for Thursday’s Europa League semi-final second leg at Old Trafford due to a muscle injury to the hamstring of his right hamstring,” a statement from Athletic Bilbao revealed.
The 30-year-old Ghana international was substituted in the 62nd minute during last weekend’s goalless La Liga draw against Real Sociedad after showing signs of discomfort. Medical staff later confirmed the muscle injury, which has now ruled him out of one of the club’s most important fixtures of the season.
Williams’ timeline for recovery remains uncertain, as the club noted, “It remains to be seen whether it will evolve,” leaving fans and teammates hopeful for a quick return before the season ends.
Williams has featured in 48 matches across all competitions this season, registering 11 goals and 9 assists for Athletic Bilbao.
