Nico Williams Commits Future to Athletic Club, Rejects Barcelona Move
In a dramatic turn of events, Nico Williams has signed a new long-term contract with Athletic Club, extending his stay until 2035 and ending Barcelona’s pursuit of the highly sought-after winger.
Barcelona’s Pursuit Falls Short
Barça had been confident of securing Williams’ signature this summer, with sporting director Deco stating the player had shown a strong “desire to join” the Catalan giants. President Joan Laporta even confirmed the club’s readiness to trigger his €58 million ($68.3m) release clause.
However, Athletic Club announced on Friday that Williams had agreed to a new deal, significantly increasing his buyout clause—reportedly by more than 50%. The decision comes as a major blow to Barcelona, who had been tracking the 22-year-old for over a year.
A Heartfelt Decision
Williams, who joined Athletic’s youth academy at 11, chose loyalty over a high-profile move, citing emotional ties to the club where he plays alongside his brother, Iñaki Williams.
“When you have to make decisions, for me, what weighs most is the heart,” Williams said in a video posted by Athletic. “I am where I want to be, with my people, this is my home. Aupa Athletic!”
In a symbolic gesture, he spray-painted “2035” on a defaced mural of himself—a response to recent fan backlash amid transfer speculation.
From Fan Tensions to Champions League Dreams
The saga had grown tense in recent weeks, with Athletic even lodging a complaint to LaLiga over Barça’s financial dealings in an attempt to block the move. Some fans had vandalized Williams’ mural twice, reflecting their frustration over his potential departure.
Yet, the Spain international’s commitment ensures he will lead Athletic into next season’s Champions League—a historic achievement for the Basque club after their 2024 Copa del Rey triumph ended a 40-year trophy drought.
Rising Star for Club and Country
Since his first-team debut in 2021, Williams has become a cornerstone for Athletic, amassing 167 appearances and 31 goals. His performances earned him a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024-winning squad, where he scored in the final against England and formed strong bonds with Barça players like Lamine Yamal, Alejandro Balde, and Pedri.
Yamal and Balde had reportedly urged Williams to join Barça, with the former even sharing social media hints about a potential transfer. But in the end, family, loyalty, and Athletic’s ambitious project proved decisive.
What’s Next for Barcelona?
Barça must now shift focus to alternative targets, while Williams’ renewal marks a major statement from Athletic Club—retaining their prized asset despite intense pressure from one of Spain’s biggest clubs.