Athletic Club faces a challenging away trip to Barcelona to take on Espanyol, with the squad severely depleted by injuries to three key players. The Basque side, currently navigating the final stretch of the LaLiga season, will have to do without star forwards Nico Williams and Oihan Sancet, as well as experienced left-back Yuri Berchiche. The match, set for this Wednesday, marks Athletic’s penultimate away fixture before they host Celta Vigo at San Mamés and close out the campaign against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The absence of Nico Williams and Sancet, both sidelined with muscle problems, deals a significant blow to Athletic’s attacking options. Williams, one of the most electric wingers in the league, has been a constant menace for opposing defenses with his pace and dribbling ability. Sancet, meanwhile, has been a reliable goal threat from midfield, offering creativity and a knack for arriving in the box at the right moment. Their combined absence forces coach Ernesto Valverde to rethink his offensive setup during a crucial phase of the season.
Yuri Berchiche’s unavailability adds to the defensive reshuffle. The left-back suffered a knock in the previous outing against Valencia and has not recovered in time for the Espanyol clash. Yuri’s experience and solidity on the flank have been vital for Athletic, and his absence could expose the team on that side, especially against Espanyol’s wide play. With these three first-team regulars out, Valverde must dig deep into his squad.
The injury crisis, however, opens the door for Nico Serrano. The young forward has found opportunities limited this season, but Valverde acknowledged in his pre-match press conference that he may have erred by not giving Serrano more minutes. "With the game stretched, he gives us something and unbalances," Valverde admitted, hinting that Serrano’s directness could be a valuable asset. The coach even suggested that Serrano could be in line for a starting role, a significant vote of confidence after being an unused substitute against Valencia.
This public admission of a potential selection mistake is rare from Valverde, who is known for his measured approach. It underscores the urgency of the situation—Athletic need points to secure a strong league finish, and with key creators missing, the onus falls on fringe players to step up. Serrano, who has shown flashes of talent in limited appearances, now has a golden chance to prove his worth. A strong performance could change the narrative of his season and influence Valverde’s plans for the upcoming campaign.
Beyond the injuries, Valverde has received some positive news with the return of midfield anchor Iñigo Galarreta. The midfielder missed the last match after rushing to be with his wife for the birth of their second child, but he is back in the squad and ready to provide stability in the center of the park. His composure on the ball and defensive work rate will be crucial in a game where Athletic are likely to face pressure. Additionally, Óscar de Marcos’ deputy, Lekue, retains his place, and the squad sees the inclusion of Maroan Sannadi and Urko Egiluz.
Maroan’s return is particularly noteworthy: the forward underwent meniscus surgery in November and has only featured in one match since then. His availability adds another option in attack, though match fitness remains a question. Egiluz, the young central defender, is yet to play this season after suffering a cruciate ligament rupture in the summer. His presence in the traveling party is a significant step in his recovery, though it is unlikely he will be thrown into the starting lineup immediately.
The context of the match cannot be ignored. Athletic are jostling for position in the upper echelons of LaLiga, with European qualification potentially on the line. Every point matters, and a trip to Espanyol—a team known for its resilience at home—is never straightforward. Valverde’s side must balance the need for attacking impetus with the risk of exposing an unfamiliar backline. The coach’s tactical setup will be scrutinized, particularly how he integrates Serrano and whether he opts for a more conservative approach given the absentees.
Historically, Athletic have struggled with squad depth when injuries hit their key performers. The club’s reliance on homegrown talent means that replacements often lack top-flight experience. This match will test the academy pipeline, as players like Serrano and Egiluz represent the future. A positive outcome at the RCDE Stadium could reaffirm the club’s philosophy, while a setback might reignite debates about the need for external reinforcements.
For Espanyol, facing an Athletic side missing its main attacking threats could be seen as an opportunity. The Catalan side will look to exploit the visitors’ makeshift defense and disrupted rhythm. Athletic’s defensive organization, usually a hallmark under Valverde, will be under the microscope without Yuri and with potential changes in midfield. Galarreta’s return should help maintain some order, but the chemistry with those around him may take time to gel.
The spotlight, however, remains firmly on Serrano. The 22-year-old has had a stuttering career since breaking into the first team, with loans and injuries interrupting his progress. A start against Espanyol would be his biggest opportunity in months. If he can replicate the form that once made him a highly-touted prospect, he could not only help Athletic secure a vital result but also cement a more permanent role in Valverde’s plans. The coach’s words indicate that the door is open; now Serrano must walk through it.
As Athletic approach the season’s climax, the Espanyol clash serves as a stern examination of their resilience. The next three games will define their campaign, and overcoming this injury-riddled challenge could galvanize the squad. Valverde’s willingness to publicly back Serrano and acknowledge his own missteps suggests a coach willing to adapt. Whether the team can translate that into a result on the pitch remains to be seen. Based on reporting from Marca.
