Opponent watch: Athletic Club will be able to count on former Barcelona target for Camp Nou trip | OneFootball

Athletic Club will brace themselves for a hostile environment as they visit Spotify Camp Nou to face Barcelona this weekend.

This will mark the first time Camp Nou hosts a football match in two and a half years, and given Barcelona’s tense relationship with Athletic Club, the fans are not expected to give a warm welcome.

However, Athletic Club will be able to re-arm themselves heading into the Barcelona contest, thanks to the return of key players, including Nico Williams.

Nico Williams ready to face Barcelona?

Nico Williams, who was close to joining Barcelona last summer for a second consecutive year, could not make the move to Catalonia.

The forward ended up signing a contract extension until 2035, irking Barcelona in the process. And as reported by SPORT, the attack will be involved in the thick of things as Athletic Club visit Camp Nou this weekend.

Nico Williams is likely to be booed by Barcelona fans at Camp Nou this weekend. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Nico, just like his friend Lamine Yamal, had been suffering from pubalgia this season and was not selected for the Spanish national team duty this month, much to the surprise of Barcelona.

With just two goals and two assists in La Liga this season, Nico has been able to perform so far. But he will fancy the opportunity to make an impact against Barcelona this weekend, despite the hostile environment expected.

During the November international break, Nico has been able to train diligently and overcome his groin issues.

Coach Ernesto Valverde will be able to count on his services against Barcelona, while Oihan Sancet is also expected to be available.

However, the same cannot be said for Nico’s brother, Inaki Williams, who is a major doubt and continues to train separately from the group.