Inaki Williams insists Athletic Bilbao haven’t any concern of Arsenal regardless of being disadvantaged of the providers of Nico Williams for his or her Champions League opener.
Athletic welcome the Gunners to San Mames on Tuesday as they start their league section marketing campaign towards an Arsenal aspect trying to go one step additional after reaching the semi-finals final season.
The Basque membership held on to Spain worldwide Nico Williams within the switch window regardless of important curiosity from Barcelona, the 23-year-old in the end signing a brand new 10-year contract with Athletic.
However, after serving to Athletic to the final 4 of the Europa League final season, Nico Williams won’t be obtainable due to a thigh harm.
But his older brother Inaki made it clear Athletic are relishing the fixture even amid the absence of their star man.
“So many people are wanting ahead to debuting within the Champions League. for years we’ve fought for a day like tomorrow and we wish to develop our dream,” Inaki Williams informed a pre-match press convention.
“We’re not afraid of anybody, it is going to be a very nice recreation. I hope I can debut with a win, but it surely’s a pity I can’t do it with Nico.”
Athletic coach Ernesto Valverde, in the meantime, had effusive reward for Arsenal counterpart Mikel Arteta.
“He’s among the best coaches on this planet and he’s displaying what he can do at Arsenal,” Valverde mentioned.
“He’s acquired nice gamers however it’s a must to have a look at what they’re doing and the way they play.
“They don’t allow you to play, they press in each duel, they insist, and it’s exhausting to press them. They’re a crew with a stamp on them and that stamp is Arteta.”