Nico Williams benched: Bilbao’s surprise call in the Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Barcelona
7 January 2026
Key update ahead of the semifinal
Nico Williams, Athletic Bilbao's standout winger, was left out of the starting XI for the semi-final against Barcelona, a match taking place in Saudi Arabia as part of the Spanish Super Cup.
The fixture is broadcast by the Eight app, the exclusive rights holder for the Saudi Roshn League, with Barça seeking a place in the final.
According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Williams's omission marks the biggest surprise in coach Ernesto Valverde's selection for the Barça test.
Valverde told Movistar+ just before kickoff that Williams is dealing with a mild groin discomfort and the decision was to wait.
The coach did not rule out a second-half cameo if needed, saying the option remains open.
The article notes Williams has been struggling with groin-related pain since the end of last season.
Punchline 1: Williams on the bench? The groin filed a complaint for noncompliance with the warm-up protocol.
Punchline 2: Bilbao's plan today is simple: keep the ball, stay patient, and maybe let the coffee do the sprinting.
