Nico Williams Returns for Spain and Opens Up About Injury
Nico Williams made his long-awaited return for Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after recovering from the injury he suffered against Uruguay. The winger reflected on the challenge of returning early and is now focused on Spain's blockbuster semifinal against France.
Nico Williams is back with Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after recovering from the injury he suffered during the group-stage match against Uruguay. The Athletic Club winger returned in Spain's 2-1 victory over Belgium, helping La Roja secure a place in the tournament's semifinals.
Williams entered the match in the 78th minute, replacing Mikel Oyarzabal with the score tied at 1-1. Just minutes later, Mikel Merino scored the winning goal that sent Spain into the final four.
After the match, Williams reflected on the challenge that sidelined him following a hard tackle from Uruguay's Nicolás De La Cruz. The injury forced him to miss Spain's matches against Austria and Portugal.
"I think there are limits that should never be crossed. It was a play that could have been completely avoided, but that's football," Williams said after the victory. The Spanish international admitted that he pushed himself to recover as quickly as possible because of the importance of representing his country on the world's biggest stage.
"I had to shorten the recovery time and get back to 100 percent as soon as possible. This is the World Cup, and if you have to push yourself, you do it. We're playing for our country, and I believe any player would do the same," he explained.
Williams' return gives Spain an important boost ahead of its highly anticipated semifinal against France. His pace, creativity and ability to break down defenses could play a key role as La Roja looks to book a place in another FIFA World Cup final.
