Panic in Bilbao: Iñaki Williams Suffers Muscle Strain Ahead of Rangers Showdown

Athletic Bilbao have confirmed that Iñaki Williams suffered a strain to the adductor muscles in his left leg, forcing him to leave the pitch early during their 3-1 La Liga win over Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, April 13.

In an official statement released Monday, the Basque club said:

“The player couldn't finish the match against Rayo Vallecano. Iñaki Williams had to leave the field before the end of yesterday’s match at San Mamés due to a strain on the adductor muscles of his left leg. He awaits further treatment.”

Key Doubt for Crucial Europa League Tie

The news is a major setback for Athletic ahead of their Europa League quarter-final second leg against Glasgow Rangers on Thursday, April 17. Williams has been instrumental in the competition, scoring 5 goals in 11 appearances, and is one of the team’s most experienced and reliable attacking outlets.

Vital Role in La Liga and Europe

Currently sitting 4th in La Liga, Athletic will hope the injury is not serious, as they continue to fight on both domestic and European fronts. The Ghanaian's pace, versatility, and work rate have been critical to Ernesto Valverde’s system.

Williams will undergo further tests to assess the severity of the injury and determine his availability for Thursday’s clash.

Since the Club's hopes of qualifying for Europe may depend on his fitness, both management and athletic supporters will be praying for good news.