Why isn't Nico Williams starting for Spain against Belgium at the 2026 World Cup?

Nico Williams is not starting for Spain against Belgium at the 2026 World Cup due to recovery from a groin injury. Spain play Belgium with a place in the semifinals at stake, but the coaching staff decided the winger is not yet fully fit and chose not to risk him. Williams was also absent from the matches against Austria and Portugal, and he sustained the injury during the final group-stage game versus Uruguay after a tackle by Nicolás de la Cruz. Spain’s 1-0 win over Uruguay secured first place in the group, but the replacement for Williams suffered the injury during that match and he later left the field on his own. Despite continuing to work with the team, discomfort has kept him from being fully available. Manager Luis de la Fuente opted for Alex Baena, who started every match except the opener against Cape Verde, where Gavi played on the left wing.