Mansion Sports – Athletic Bilbao have finally welcomed encouraging developments after enduring a challenging spell from September to November, a period marked by declining form and waning momentum. The uplifting news arrives just in time for their upcoming away fixture against Barcelona.

Nico Williams Ready to Play After Sports Hernia Issue

The match carries additional significance as Athletic, one of La Liga’s storied clubs, will serve as the opponent for the reopening of the newly renovated Camp Nou, the home Barcelona have been absent from for two and a half years.

A major boost for Athletic is the expected availability of Nico Williams, whose presence adds further intrigue to the encounter following his decision to reject Barcelona’s offers on two separate occasions.

Williams had been in and out of the squad due to a sports hernia—an injury similar to the one suffered by Lamine Yamal. However, according to Diario AS, his discomfort has eased, increasing the likelihood of his participation against the Blaugrana.

Another positive development is the return of Oihan Sancet, the Spanish international midfielder, who has resumed training after recovering from a thigh injury.

Inaki Williams Not Yet Fully Recovered

Less encouraging news concerns captain Inaki Williams. The veteran forward, who has a noteworthy track record against Barcelona, remains sidelined as he continues to recover from the hamstring injury sustained a month ago.

Although his rehabilitation is progressing according to plan, he is unlikely to feature before December.

Tough Schedule Awaits Athletic Before the Christmas Break

Currently sitting seventh in La Liga, Athletic are set to embark on a demanding sequence of matches beginning with their visit to Camp Nou, followed by a crucial Champions League encounter against Slavia Prague.

Before the Christmas hiatus, Los Leones are scheduled to face Levante, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Celta Vigo, and Espanyol. This run represents one of the season’s most formidable stretches.

Should Athletic navigate this period while remaining competitive in European contention and maintaining their position in the battle for La Liga’s European spots, Ernesto Valverde will undoubtedly find satisfaction in the team’s resilience.