Crisis Strikes Bilbao: Top Trio Ruled Out for Crucial United Clash

Bilbao’s hopes of recovering from a 3-0 first-leg deficit against Manchester United in the Europa League semi-final decider were dealt a significant blow as Nico and Inaki Williams, plus top scorer Oihan Sancet, were all ruled out, Athletic Bilbao announced on Wednesday.

Key Injuries

• Inaki Williams: Hamstring injury, has scored 11 goals and registered 9 assists this season.
• Nico Williams: Groin problem, also has netted 11 goals.
• Oihan Sancet: Hamstring problem, leading scorer with 17 goals.

entrenched as strong favourites to advance to the final after a brace from Bruno Fernandes and a Casemiro goal gave them a commanding 3-0 victory at Bilbao in last week’s first leg.

Bilbao’s Traveling Squad in Full

Athletic Bilbao traveled to Manchester on Wednesday morning, echoing their preparations with a training session at Old Trafford.

1. Unai Simón
2. Agirrezabala
3. Santos
4. Gorosabel
5. Paredes
6. Yeray
7. Vesga
8. Berenguer
9. A. Djaló
10. Guruzeta
11. Núñez
12. I. Lekue
13. Ruiz de Galarreta
14. Yuri
15. De Marcos
16. Unai G.
17. Maroan
18. Jauregizar
19. Prados
20. Canales
21. Adama
22. Olabarrieta
23. Rejo
24. Varela

Bilbao’s chances of progressing now hang in the balance, with the absence of their formidable attacking trio making an uphill challenge even steeper.

Did you know?

This is the first time since 2009 that Bilbao has reached the semi-finals of a European competition.

Pro Tips

TORRENT’S TIP: Despite the injury crisis, Bilbao needs to focus on their defensive organization and quick breaks to make life difficult for United.

FAQs

When is the second leg being played?

May 14

Where is the game being played?

Old Trafford, Manchester

Final Say

The odds are heavily against Bilbao, but as they say, the game isn’t over until the final whistle. Let’s see if they can conjure another European miracle.