Iñaki Williams Sidelined Indefinitely After Groin Injury in Bilbao’s Champions League Win
Athletic Club de Bilbao have confirmed that captain Iñaki Williams will be out of action for an unspecified period after suffering a groin (adductor) injury during their 3-1 victory over Qarabag in the UEFA Champions League on Thursday night.
Williams was forced off in the 38th minute of the encounter after pulling up in discomfort, prompting immediate concern from the Bilbao bench. The club released an official statement following the match, revealing the extent of the forward’s injury.
“Iñaki Williams was substituted in the 38th minute of yesterday’s Champions League match against Qarabag FK after suffering an injury to the adductor muscle in his right leg,” the statement read.
Although Bilbao stopped short of specifying a recovery timeline, they confirmed that the Ghana international has already begun his rehabilitation process.
“He will begin his recovery process and is awaiting further developments,” the club added.
This marks the second adductor-related setback Williams has suffered this season, raising concerns over his fitness ahead of a demanding run of fixtures for both club and country.
The 30-year-old forward is now doubtful for Saturday’s La Liga clash against Getafe, as well as the Basque derby against Real Sociedad on November 1 at the Anoeta Stadium. He could also be sidelined for Bilbao’s Champions League trip to Newcastle United four days later.
On the international front, Williams is at risk of missing Ghana’s upcoming friendlies in Asia, where the Black Stars are set to face Japan in the 2025 Kirin Challenge Cup on November 14, before meeting South Korea on November 18.
