Manchester United have received a major boost ahead of their Europa League semi-final second leg against Athletic Bilbao, with the Spanish side confirming that brothers Nico and Inaki Williams will miss the match at Old Trafford due to injury. Neither forward is in the travelling squad for Thursday's game, dealing a significant blow to Athletic's hopes of overturning a 3-0 deficit from the first leg.
The Williams siblings both started the first leg at San Mames, where United secured a commanding victory. Nico has been used sparingly in La Liga recently, with manager Ernesto Valverde prioritising his fitness for Europe, but he missed the weekend draw with Real Sociedad and has not recovered in time. Inaki played in that match but was substituted after an hour, and he too has been ruled out.
Athletic will also be without top scorer Oihan Sancet, who missed the first leg through injury and has not recovered, while defender Dani Vivian is suspended after being sent off in the first leg. Vivian's red card, following a VAR check for a foul on Rasmus Hojlund, proved pivotal as United led 1-0 through Casemiro at the time. Bruno Fernandes added two goals, including a penalty, to seal the win.
United captain Casemiro praised the club's fans for their unwavering support, particularly after the dramatic late comeback against Lyon in the previous round. 'The fans are something incredible. It isn't normal how good they are,' he told club media. 'They always support us, whether we are playing well or badly. If they didn't support us like they do, it would be even more difficult.'
United now hold a commanding advantage as they aim to reach the final against Tottenham or Bodo/Glimt. Ruben Amorim's side are within touching distance of European glory, and the absence of key Athletic players further strengthens their position.
