Ghana international Inaki Williams has expressed his delight after returning to action for Athletic Bilbao following a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury.
The Black Stars forward had been out for nearly two months while recovering from an injury setback and finally made his comeback on Sunday, coming on as a second-half substitute in Athletic Bilbao’s 2-0 away defeat to Celta Vigo in the Spanish La Liga. Williams featured for 45 minutes, marking his first competitive appearance since October.
Williams picked up the injury during Athletic Bilbao’s UEFA Champions League encounter against Qarabag FK in October, a match the Basque side won 3-1 at home. The setback ruled him out of several matches for both club and country.
Reflecting on his return, the 31-year-old attacker said he was pleased with how his body responded on his return to competitive action.
“I felt good, growing into the game little by little. Despite the training, the most important thing is competing. I’m happy to be back and to be able to contribute as soon as possible,” Williams said.
The contest at Balaídos ended goalless at halftime, with both sides showing caution in the opening exchanges. However, Celta Vigo raised their intensity after the break and took control of the match.
Williot Swedberg broke the deadlock in the 48th minute, before Jones El-Abdellaoui sealed the victory for the hosts with a second goal later in the game.
Williams has endured a modest start to the 2025/26 season, making 13 appearances across all competitions for Athletic Bilbao and scoring one goal so far, as he now looks to regain full fitness and rediscover his best form in the weeks ahead.
