Athletic Club Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde has heaped praise on forward Iñaki Williams, crediting the Ghana international with driving the team’s attacking output and competitive spirit.
Speaking after Williams provided two assists in Bilbao’s 4–2 La Liga win over Levante, Valverde highlighted the 29-year-old’s persistence and energy as key catalysts for the side.
“He’s always a player who persists a lot, and that makes us produce a lot,” Valverde said in his post-match comments.
Williams’ latest contribution comes on the back of his decisive late goal against Valencia in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals, which secured Athletic’s passage to the semifinals, where they will face Real Sociedad on February 11.
The forward’s return to form has been particularly timely after a two-month layoff earlier this season due to an abductor injury—a period that also saw him miss Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification matches.
Valverde expressed hope that Williams’ recent performances will further boost his confidence.
“We hope the goal he scored and today’s performance will encourage him,” the coach added, underlining the importance of having a fully fit and firing Williams as Bilbao push for a top-four finish in La Liga and pursue Copa del Rey glory.
With his blend of relentless running, tactical intelligence, and growing end product, Williams continues to be an indispensable figure in Valverde’s system—a player whose effort, in the manager’s own words, makes the entire team produce more.
Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.
Read Full Story
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Google+
YouTube
LinkedIn
RSS