Athletic Club will have a strong presence at the 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada, with four first-team players officially called up. Unai Simón, Nico Williams, and Aymeric Laporte have been included in Spain’s squad, while Iñaki Williams will represent Ghana. This quartet equals the club’s second-largest contingent in World Cup history, a mark last reached in 1950.
Iñaki Williams’s inclusion comes after his switch of international allegiance from Spain to Ghana years ago, and he now gears up for his second World Cup. He was named in Carlos Queiroz’s 28-man preliminary list for a training camp and a friendly against Wales on June 2. The Athletic forward was given extra time to join the squad, arriving on Saturday alongside Arsenal’s Thomas Partey, and faces no risk of being cut from the final 26-man roster.
For Spain, the selection of Simón, Nico Williams, and Laporte reinforces the Athletic connection. Simón remains the first-choice goalkeeper, Nico Williams has become a dynamic winger after his breakout at Athletic, and Laporte, though now at Al-Nassr, spent his formative years at the club before moving to Manchester City. Their familiarity with each other could benefit Spain’s cohesion in high-pressure matches.
Athletic’s World Cup history is steeped in pride. The record for most players sent to a single edition stands at five, set in 1934 when Cilaurren, Muguerza, Gorostiza, Lafuente, and Iraragorri donned the Spain jersey. In 1950, the club had four representatives—Zarra, Gainza, Panizo, and Nando—a feat now matched. Only two players have won the World Cup while at Athletic: Javi Martínez and Fernando Llorente in 2010.
Beyond the confirmed four, Athletic could see further recognition. Central defender Daniel Vivian is on Spain’s reserve list, and goalkeeper Álex Padilla is on Mexico’s prelist as potential injury replacements. If any of the primary choices are sidelined, Vivian or Padilla could join the tournament, potentially pushing the club’s representation to six—a new all-time high.
The call-ups underscore Athletic’s ability to develop elite talent despite its unique philosophy of fielding only Basque players or those developed in the region. Both Williams brothers came through the club’s academy, Simón is a homegrown shot-stopper, and Laporte was a youth product before his transfer. This blend of local roots and top-tier performance continues to attract attention from major national teams.
Iñaki Williams’s journey with Ghana adds an intriguing narrative. The forward, who debuted for Spain before switching, has become a key figure for the Black Stars. His speed and work rate were pivotal in Ghana’s qualifying campaign, and his late arrival to the pre-World Cup camp is merely a logistical note—his place is assured. The friendly against Wales will be his final tune-up before the main event.
For Spain, the inclusion of three Athletic-linked players highlights the club’s enduring role in La Roja. Luis de la Fuente, himself an Athletic legend, may rely on the chemistry between Simón and his clubmates. Nico Williams, in particular, is tipped to be one of the breakout stars of the tournament, following his impressive domestic and European displays.
The 2026 World Cup presents a unique opportunity for all involved. With matches spread across three nations, the tournament will demand depth and adaptability. Athletic’s players are well-prepared, having competed at the highest levels in La Liga and, in Laporte’s case, the Saudi Pro League and Asian Champions League. Their experience could prove decisive.
Athletic Club’s tradition of producing World Cup talent is a source of institutional pride. From the pioneering squads of the 1930s to today’s crop, the club has consistently contributed to football’s biggest stage. As the tournament approaches, fans in Bilbao will track their stars with keen interest, hoping this generation can add to the club’s legacy.
Iñaki Williams will first test his form against Wales before joining the full Ghana squad for final preparations. Meanwhile, the Spain-based players will link up with De la Fuente’s group once the club season concludes. All eyes will be on their fitness and form as the countdown to the opening match intensifies.
Based on reporting from Marca.
