Nico Williams Commits Future to Athletic Club, Rejecting Barcelona Move

Winger Aims to “Make History” with Basque Side

In a significant development for Spanish football, star winger Nico Williams has penned a new long-term contract with Athletic Club, spurning interest from FC Barcelona.

Loyalty Over La Liga Giants

The Spain international, who had reportedly asked his agent to explore a transfer to Barcelona this summer, has instead committed his future to the Basque club. This decision came as a shock to many observers, ending prolonged speculation about his next career move.

“I think we have a very long season ahead of us. We have very ambitious titles like the Champions League, which everyone would like to play in,” Williams stated. “What could be better than doing it with the club of my life? I would like to continue making history here at San Mamés, with the fans, with my family, and with a lot of enthusiasm.”

Athletic Club’s Ambitious Plans

Williams‘ commitment underscores Athletic Club’s ambition to compete at the highest level, including challenging for Champions League qualification. This season, the club aims to secure European football, a feat achieved by only 33% of teams in Europe’s top five leagues historically.

Barcelona Shifts Focus

With Nico Williams off their transfer radar, Barcelona is now actively pursuing alternative targets. Reports indicate that Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford and Liverpool’s Luis Diaz are the primary candidates being considered by the Catalan club to bolster their attacking options.