JANUARY 16, 2025 • NYTIMES.COM
Footballers' shin pads – the piece of equipment some pros prefer not to wear Shin guards date back to the 1800s but shapes, sizes and personal tastes have evolved over the years – and now everyone has a preference
Nico Williams - Scores in Copa del Rey Williams (ankle) started and scored a goal in Thursday's 3-2 loss to Osasuna in the Copa del Rey.
Impact Williams didn't look bothered by the ankle injury, and the speedy winger scored the team's first goal late in the opening 45 minutes. Williams should be ready to go in upcoming matches now that he's healthy, as he's one of the best players in the Athletic squad.
JANUARY 16, 2025 • ROTOWIRE
Yeray Alvarez - Returns in Copa del Rey Alvarez (calf) was an unused sub in Thursday's 3-2 loss to Osasuna in the Copa del Rey.
Impact Alvarez didn't step into the game Thursday, but his presence on the bench suggests he's deemed fit enough to play. Thus, he should be part of the squad when Athletic takes on Celta Vigo on Sunday.
JANUARY 16, 2025 • ROTOWIRE
Sergio Herrera - Exits with apparent concussion Herrera departed Thursday's match against Athletic Club in the Copa del Rey with an apparent concussion, according to Radio Popular Herri Irratia.
Impact Herrera left the game in the latter stages of the second half after a blow to the head following a collision with Enzo Boyomo. Aitor Fernandez took his place between the posts, and he might remain in the XI for the league match against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday if Herrera doesn't recover in time.
JANUARY 16, 2025 • ROTOWIRE
Inigo Ruiz De Galarreta - Returns in Copa del Rey De Galarreta (hamstring) returned and played 69 minutes in Thursday's Copa del Rey match against Osasuna.
Impact The central midfielder didn't play in the Spanish Supercup but should be just fine to play in LaLiga when Athletic takes on Celta Vigo on Sunday. De Galarreta has been a regular presence in midfield for the Basque side, starting in 11 of his 15 league outings while tallying two asissts.
JANUARY 16, 2025 • ROTOWIRE
Jose Arnaiz - Ill ahead of cup game Arnaiz (illness) is dealing with a fever ahead of the Copa del Rey match against Bilbao and is therefore doubtful for Sunday's game against Rayo Vallecano, according to the club.
Impact Arnaiz has mainly been a bench option this season, so his potential absence due to illness is unlikely to impact the starting XI against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday. He has yet to register a goal contribution this season.
JANUARY 16, 2025 • ROTOWIRE
Ruben Pena - Picks up illness Pena (illness) will not be available to face Bilbao in the Copa del Rey due to illness and is therefore doubtful for Sunday's match against Rayo Vallecano, the club announced.
Impact Pena has not been a regular starter this season, although he did start the important match against Atletico in the opening La Liga game of the year. If he remains unavailable for Sunday's match against Rayo Vallecano, Kike Barja is likely to be the starter as the left winger.
JANUARY 16, 2025 • ROTOWIRE
