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Nico Williams Vows Full Commitment as Athletic Bilbao Prepare for Europa Semifinal Clash

Posted : 30 April 2025

Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams has expressed his determination ahead of Thursday's Europa League semifinal first leg against Manchester United, promising that the team will give everything to secure a place in the final. With the showpiece match scheduled to be played at their iconic San Mames stadium on May 21, the Spanish international acknowledged how significant the opportunity is for both the club and its supporters.

 

He also credited his older brother and teammate, Inaki Williams, for helping the squad stay grounded during their impressive European campaign, urging focus and composure amid growing excitement.

 

Despite Manchester United’s inconsistent domestic form, Nico remains respectful of their pedigree and sees the match as a major challenge. He highlighted the quality of players like Bruno Fernandes and noted the palpable buzz within the Athletic camp and across the city.

 

The winger, who played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, emphasized the importance of stepping up in high-pressure matches and admitted he is eagerly anticipating the duel at San Mames and the return leg at Old Trafford.

 

Athletic Bilbao have never lifted a European trophy, though they came close twice in the Europa League, most notably in 2012 after eliminating United en route to the final. Last season’s Copa del Rey triumph ended a four-decade title drought, and the club now eyes further glory.

 

Williams, proud of the team's journey, sees this semifinal as a defining moment for both himself and the institution, underscoring the emotional weight of potentially reaching the final on home soil.

 

Head coach Ernesto Valverde, however, urged caution, warning that Thursday's encounter is only half of the battle. He stressed the importance of delivering consistent performances across both legs and referenced United's dramatic quarterfinal comeback against Lyon as a reminder of their danger.

 

Valverde even pointed to United’s historic 1999 Champions League final turnaround to highlight the English side’s knack for late drama, stating that in knockout football, anything can happen in a moment.

 

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