Nico Williams, one of Spanish football’s brightest prospects, surprised everyone by candidly admitting, “I had a shit year.” Despite being included in the squad for the 2026 World Cup, the Athletic Bilbao winger opened up about a personal ordeal marked by debilitating injuries that nearly made him lose hope.
The 21-year-old Spanish international is now fully recovered and ready to assist the national team led by Luis de la Fuente, following a hellish season. Williams spoke to Marca about the suffering caused by persistent pubalgia and a hamstring injury, which kept him off the pitch and sometimes forced him to train and compete with injections just to maintain his place. The player described that period as “very tough,” emphasizing that he cried on more than one occasion out of frustration at wanting to play but being unable to. “These are situations I wouldn’t wish on anyone: wanting to and not being able to,” Williams lamented, adding, “I cried more than one day! If it had only been one! I went through a lot. It was a very hard few months, a shit year. I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy!”
These episodes of physical and psychological suffering have led the player to value even more the opportunity to participate in the 2026 World Cup, at a time when Spain is looking to regain its status as a favorite following a disappointing 0-0 draw against Cape Verde in their opening match. The pressure is at its peak and the expectations of the fans are soaring, but Nico Williams wants to assure everyone that he is mentally prepared and motivated to make a comeback. “I’m doing very well. I’m eager, I’m grateful to be here, and I’m very happy to continue training and regaining my form,” said the winger, emphasizing that the decision regarding his use belongs to the coach: “That’s up to the mister to decide. If he gives me the opportunity, it will be welcome. I will always be ready.”
The young talent acknowledges that he still lacks some competitive rhythm, but makes a promise to the fans: “You can expect my usual game-changing football as soon as I regain my match rhythm.” At Athletic Bilbao, Williams experienced the last season with a mix of frustration and relief, as he was close to leaving for Barcelona but chose to renew his contract and join one of the best squads in recent years, with the team competing in the Champions League. “It was a very exciting season,” he confessed, admitting that he feels indebted to the fans for not being able to contribute more due to physical problems. “I will do everything in my power to be in much better physical shape next season,” he assured.
The impact of Williams’ statements was felt not only within the national team but also among fans and commentators, who praised the player’s courage and transparency. In the locker room, the atmosphere remains calm despite the opening draw. “No one wants to draw; we want to win. We are a very ambitious group, and there are many expectations on us. It’s better that it happens now rather than later. The team is very focused and eager for the next game,” highlighted the winger, showing confidence in a positive response in the upcoming match.
Recalling his first call-up to a World Cup in 2022, Williams described the moment as “surreal,” especially because it was alongside his brother. “I was watching the announcement with my friends, and when I heard my name, I was frozen. I didn’t react because I couldn’t believe it,” he said, adding that after the last year, he approaches this opportunity with a renewed sense of gratitude.
With Spain seeking affirmation and Nico Williams determined to prove his worth after months of struggle, the upcoming match takes on decisive significance. The entire nation hopes to see the winger return to his best form, ready to tip the balance and help the team overcome the initial turbulence. The 2026 World Cup could be the stage for Williams’ redemption — and, who knows, the beginning of a new era for the Spanish national team.
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