Inaki Williams Suffers Fresh Injury Blow in Athletic Club’s Champions League Victory Over Qarabag
Ghana forward Inaki Williams was substituted early in Athletic Club’s 3–1 victory over Qarabag FK in the UEFA Champions League at the San Mamés Stadium, sparking renewed fears over his fitness.
The 31-year-old attacker lasted only 38 minutes before being withdrawn after appearing to struggle with discomfort, a worrying sign given his recent recovery from injury. Williams had just returned to action after missing Ghana’s October World Cup qualifiers against the Central African Republic and Comoros, where the Black Stars sealed qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Athletic endured a shaky start as Qarabag capitalised on an early defensive mix-up to take the lead within the opening minute. However, Ernesto Valverde’s side soon found their rhythm, with Gorka Guruzeta restoring parity before halftime.
Williams’ exit forced Valverde into tactical changes, bringing on his younger brother Nico Williams and Robert Navarro, whose curling effort from distance put Athletic ahead midway through the second half. Guruzeta later completed his brace with a spectacular volley from outside the area to seal a deserved win.
The victory keeps Athletic in strong contention for qualification from their group, but Williams’ condition will be closely monitored as the club awaits further medical assessment to determine the extent of the injury.
