Athletic Club Bilbao are just two matches away from the dream of a lifetime — playing a UEFA Europa League final on home soil. Powered by the dynamic brotherhood of Nico and Inaki Williams, the Basque side face Manchester United in a thrilling semi-final showdown, with a chance to lift their first-ever European trophy in front of their own fans at the iconic San Mames stadium.
For a club built on deep-rooted tradition and local pride, a European final in Bilbao would be more than just a football match — it would be a celebration of history, identity, and the unique spirit of Los Leones.
A Club Bound by Identity and Region
Athletic Club remain one of the few elite clubs in Europe that maintain a strict philosophy of fielding only players born or developed in the Basque Country. That loyalty to local talent has defined their legacy, and it’s paying off in a big way.
The 2023/24 campaign already saw them lift the Copa del Rey, ending a 40-year wait for silverware after defeating Mallorca in Seville. The title celebrations included the rare return of the “Gabarra”, a traditional boat parade that sailed through the Bilbao estuary. Over a million fans came out to witness the triumph.
Now, with a European trophy in sight, the dream is even bigger.
San Mamés @AthleticClub | #UEL pic.twitter.com/s8qe4n2Ubc
— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) April 30, 2025
Nico and Inaki Williams: Brothers on a Mission
At the heart of Athletic’s fairytale run are brothers Nico and Inaki Williams — two players representing not only the future of the club but the emotional core of this campaign.
Nico Williams, 22, has already written his name into Spanish football history by scoring in the Euro 2024 final against England. While his domestic form has dipped slightly this season, he’s been clutch in Europe — scoring twice against Roma in the round of 16 and netting again in the quarter-final against Rangers.
“I’m living my dream,” Nico told UEFA. “I’ve wanted to play in games like this since I was little. Reaching the final at San Mames would be unforgettable.”
Meanwhile, older brother Inaki, now 30, is enjoying the season of his life. Operating from the right wing, the Ghanaian international has been Athletic’s most consistent performer, delivering goals, assists, and leadership throughout the campaign.
Their bond — forged through shared hardship and sacrifice — adds another emotional layer to the story. Their parents crossed the Sahara Desert seeking a better life, and now their sons are leading Athletic toward European history.
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@willliamsssnico & @Williaaams45 #AthleticMUFC #AthleticClub pic.twitter.com/CBgtAxcdFN
— Athletic Club (@Athletic_en) April 29, 2025
A Familiar Foe Awaits: Manchester United
Standing between Athletic Club and their dream final are Manchester United, a European powerhouse battling their own issues under new boss Ruben Amorim.
United are struggling domestically but pulled off a remarkable comeback to eliminate Lyon in the previous round. They are desperate for Europa League success — not just for silverware, but to qualify for the 2025 Champions League, along with its financial windfall.
“There is no favourite,” said Nico Williams when asked about the upcoming clash. “United are a great team. We can’t underestimate them, even if they’re low in the table.”
For Athletic Club, United represent a chance at revenge — the Basque club famously eliminated the Red Devils back in 2012, on their way to the final, where they eventually lost to Atlético Madrid. Only Oscar de Marcos, now 35, remains from that squad.
A Season of Redemption
Athletic’s journey to the semi-finals has been nothing short of heroic. After losing the first leg to Roma, they roared back at San Mames to overturn the deficit. Against Rangers, they were dominant from the outset.
Every match at home has been electric. The crowd, the noise, the energy — San Mames has become a fortress. If they can get past United over two legs, it will set up an emotional and unprecedented home final in Bilbao on May 21, with either Tottenham or Bodo/Glimt waiting.
“We have to approach it with maximum respect and desire,” said Inaki Williams. “This could be the greatest moment of our careers.”
Bilbao’s Dream is Alive
With the first leg in Bilbao and the return at Old Trafford on May 8, Athletic fans are daring to dream. Another Gabarra celebration floats in the back of every supporter’s mind.
The Williams brothers — one a veteran warrior, the other a rising star — are writing a script that could define generations.
And this time, the final is in their own backyard.
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