Premier League
Nico Williams has decided to stop in order to try to definitively resolve his pubalgia problems, an ailment that has accompanied him for much of the season at Athletic de Bilbao. The club confirmed that his absence will be indefinite, although it is estimated that it could last around a month.
Ernesto Valverde was clear in explaining the situation: the winger is not at a hundred percent and cannot continue like this. The priority is to fully recover the player, even if it means missing key matches.
The absence of Nico Williams will affect important commitments in LaLiga and the return leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals against Real Sociedad. A sporting blow in a decisive stretch of the season.
Nico Williams and the wearing out at Athletic de Bilbao
The season has not been easy for the Spanish international. After renewing long-term with Athletic de Bilbao, expectations were high, but performance has been conditioned by physical problems.
In 26 official appearances, Nico Williams has scored four goals and provided six assists, figures far from what was expected after his contract extension. The injury has limited his explosiveness, his main weapon.
Athletic de Bilbao has also not met the set objectives. Ninth in LaLiga, eliminated from the Champions League group stage, and with inconsistent performances, the project has lost momentum.
In this context, the decision to take a break can be seen as strategic. The goal is to arrive at the 2026 World Cup in full condition and prevent pubalgia from becoming a chronic issue.
Arsenal keeping an eye on the summer market
While the player focuses on his recovery, Arsenal remains attentive to his contractual and sporting situation. Reports from England suggest that the London club has already received information about a possible availability in the summer.
Mikel Arteta's team is looking to strengthen the left flank with a vertical, dynamic profile committed to pressing. Nico Williams fits that description.
Although Arsenal has alternatives like Trossard or Martinelli, the sporting management evaluates adding competition and tactical variations. Andrea Berta is working on several names with similar characteristics.
They are not the only interested party. Other top European clubs have also discreetly been informed about the situation of the player from Athletic de Bilbao.

A high release clause and an open future
Last summer, Nico Williams was involved in an intense saga linking him to other top clubs. Ultimately, he chose to stay in Bilbao with a significant salary improvement.
His contract includes a clause close to 100 million euros. A high figure, but affordable for top European entities if they believe the player can make a difference. The current break could serve him to reflect on his future. The season has been physically and mentally demanding, and the competitive context at Athletic de Bilbao has not been ideal.
In LaLiga, the winger has shown flashes, but without the expected consistency. The injury has impacted his continuity and fueled external doubts. For the Basque club, the full recovery of the player is a priority. However, if a strong offer comes in June, the discussion will reopen.
Arsenal represents an attractive option due to its style and sporting project. The Premier League offers international exposure and a different competitive environment.
For now, the focus is on health. Nico Williams will step away from the spotlight for a few weeks with the intention of coming back stronger. The summer will determine whether his future continues at Athletic de Bilbao or if he embarks on a new chapter far from LaLiga.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Nico Williams tiene una llamada de la Premier League
