Nico Williams Suspected of Suffering ACL Tear
Athletic Bilbao's winger Nico Williams is suspected to have sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during the UEFA Europa League match against Fenerbahçe.
Nico Williams, the winger for Athletic Bilbao, suffered a right knee injury in the 35th minute of the UEFA Europa League match against Fenerbahçe. After a collision with a Fenerbahçe defender, Williams sat on the ground, displaying visible pain, and signaled for a substitution. He was replaced by Alejandro Berenguer and was seen limping towards the locker room at halftime.
Williams had previously experienced issues with his right knee, including strains to the internal and lateral ligaments two seasons ago. Following the team's return to Bilbao, he is scheduled to undergo medical examinations to assess the extent of the injury. An MRI is planned to determine if there is significant damage beyond severe bruising.
Athletic Bilbao's next match is on Sunday against Deportivo Alavés at Mendizorrotza Stadium, followed by a game against Osasuna on December 21, concluding their 2024 fixtures.
Prior to this match, Fenerbahçe's head coach, José Mourinho, had expressed his admiration for Williams, stating his preference for the player over Lamine Yamal and expressing hope for Williams to join Real Madrid. Mourinho is likely among those concerned about Williams's injury.