Athletic Bilbao is set to make history this weekend as brothers Nico and Inaki Williams take the field together in the Copa del Rey final. The siblings will be the first brothers to play for the club since 1986, showcasing their journey from humble beginnings to the brink of glory.
Inaki, the older of the two at 29, has been a trailblazer for the club, becoming the first black player to establish himself at San Mames with over 300 La Liga appearances. His younger brother, Nico, eight years his junior, has been making waves in football as well, following in his brother’s footsteps.
Their story is one of resilience and perseverance. Born to Ghanaian parents who sought a better life in Spain, the Williams brothers overcame numerous obstacles to reach this point. Inaki, in particular, had a challenging upbringing, stepping in to help his mother raise Nico while their father sought work abroad.
Their journey has captured the hearts of Athletic Bilbao fans, who see the brothers as symbols of the club’s values and identity. With more than 100,000 supporters expected to make the trip to Seville for the final, the Williams brothers have become local heroes, embodying the spirit of the Basque region.
As they prepare to face Mallorca in the final, the Williams brothers have the opportunity to etch their names in Athletic Bilbao’s storied history. With their talent, determination, and unwavering support for each other, they represent the best of what the club stands for – unity, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.