Athletic Bilbao have been dealt a major setback as star forward Inaki Williams is set to miss their critical UEFA Europa League semifinal second leg clash against Manchester United, following a muscle injury sustained last weekend.

The Ghanaian international, a linchpin in Bilbao’s attack, was forced off in the 62nd minute during a goalless La Liga draw against Real Sociedad. Subsequent assessments revealed a hamstring injury in his right leg, sidelining him from the club’s trip to Old Trafford as they aim to overturn a daunting 3-0 deficit.

“Inaki Williams is not included in the squad list for the trip to Manchester,” the club confirmed. “The striker has not been called up for Thursday’s Europa League semi-final second leg due to a muscle injury to the hamstring of his right leg.”

With Bilbao’s hopes of a European final hanging by a thread, the absence of Williams—who has racked up 11 goals and 9 assists in 48 appearances this season—comes as a huge blow. The club has not provided a clear timeline for his return, only stating that “it remains to be seen whether it will evolve.”

The 30-year-old, who has transitioned from the Spanish to the Ghanaian national team, has been instrumental in Bilbao’s campaign, offering pace, experience, and finishing prowess. His recovery is now a race against time as the club nears the final stretch of the season, both domestically and in Europe.