Athletic Bilbao coach Valverde pleased with nominations for Williams and Simon

Valverde expressed his happiness for the players, stating, "It is a great joy and a well-deserved recognition for their achievements last season. Winning the Cup and finishing fifth in the league with the club, as well as their contributions to the national team, is truly commendable. This award is not only a significant achievement for them but also a reward for all of us at Athletic who have been part of their journey."

On Simon, he continued: "He had a great season in the league, we managed to win the Copa, he managed to be the goalkeeper who conceded the fewest goals and a series of situations have come together that make him worthy of this nomination. We will see if he can achieve it, hopefully."

On Williams, Valverde said: "It's the first time this has happened to an Athletic player. Above all, because of his work in our team and also because of his work in the national team. I hope I have a chance to take him (to the ceremony) and that at the same time we can try to do something similar to last season."