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Nico Williams Faces World Cup Setback After Groin Problem

Medical reports of no torn muscle offer cautious hope that he could return later in the tournament.

Overview

  • Williams posted on Instagram that the injury was "one of the worst days of my life" after limping from a challenge in Spain's win over Uruguay, signalling a personal low point.
  • Team staff and media reports say tests have not shown a torn groin muscle, a finding that gives guarded optimism about a possible comeback later in the knockout rounds.
  • Spain expect Williams to miss the Round of 32 tie with Austria, with secondary reports saying he could be available for the last-16 or quarter-finals if Spain advance.
  • Coach Luis de la Fuente and teammate Marcos Llorente say they have spoken with Williams and that his mood has improved thanks to conversations and squad support.
  • Williams arrived at the World Cup with a season disrupted by multiple injuries and had been managed carefully by the coach, which narrows the short recovery window Spain must weigh when selecting their knockout squad.