Williams: “We’re going to try and make history”

Athletic Club forward Iñaki Williams promised the players will do everything possible to make sure they come back from Seville with the Copa del Rey trophy in hand.

The Rojiblancos face Real Sociedad on Saturday night at La Cartuja (21:30 CEST), the first of two opportunities to win the Copa in April.

“We have an opportunity to make history,” Williams said at a press conference in Lezama. “We’re going to try and do that, for all the Athletic Club family.

“Everyone knows we’re more powerful with the fans at our side. But even though they won’t be there in person, we’ll feel like they’re there with us.”

Due to the international break, two weeks have passed since Athletic last played a competitive fixture and Williams believes the chance to rest and work on details will benefit the Lions on Saturday night.

“These two weeks without competition have given us the chance to rest, disconnect and come back ready and raring to go for the final,” Williams added.

“We’re desperate to play the final, but the team is relaxed.

“It’s not every year that you get the chance to play in three finals, two of them consecutive Copas. We have to savour every day and every training session.

“I believe that’s what we’re doing, that’s what it feels like in the dressing room.”

This is will be the first time in history Athletic have taken on Basque rivals Real Sociedad in the Copa final, and Iñaki admitted it will be a “beautiful match to watch”, especially as both teams are in good form heading into the final.

“There’s no favourite, we’re both here on our own merits after some great knockout rounds,” the no.9 added.

“La Real have a great squad and they’re having a great season in LaLiga Santander, but we’re Athletic.

“We’re on an upward trajectory and we’ve shown we’re a very difficult team to beat. Our trademark as a Club is that we never give up.”