Spain's Nico Williams Sidelined with Hamstring Injury Ahead of World Cup
Spain's Nico Williams has sustained a hamstring injury ahead of the Nations League final and will require additional recovery time before the World Cup. The 23-year-old midfielder was substituted during Athletic Bilbao's defeat to Valencia and will join teammate Oihan Sancet on the sidelines with similar injuries.
Coach Luis de La Fuente is expected to announce the final World Cup roster on May 25, with Williams and Sancet hoping for timely recoveries. Both players have been integral to Spain's attacking lineup, often featuring alongside Barcelona's Lamine Yamal despite recent setbacks.
AP reports that Sancet, like Williams, suffered a moderate hamstring strain during Sunday's match, underscoring ongoing fitness concerns for Spain's squad as they prepare for the tournament starting in a month.
Williams' brother Iñaki provided insight into his condition, noting unusual pain during substitution: "It's concerning given the timing. We're hopeful for the best but need to monitor progress closely."
With key players sidelined, Spain's World Cup prospects hinge on squad depth and medical evaluations ahead of the June 2026 kickoff.
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