Nico Williams has doubled down on his dedication to Athletic Membership, turning down curiosity from Barcelona to proceed his profession in Bilbao.
The Spain worldwide, who performed a key function in La Roja’s Euro 2024 triumph, attracted sturdy consideration this summer season from the likes of Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Arsenal, and Chelsea.
Barcelona, specifically, have been reportedly ready to set off his €58million launch clause in an try to carry the winger to Camp Nou, a yr after first registering their curiosity.
Nonetheless, Williams lately signed a contract extension with Athletic Membership till June 2035, and he’s made it clear that his coronary heart stays within the Basque Nation.
“We now have a protracted season forward of us and a few formidable targets, like enjoying within the Champions League – one thing each participant desires of,” Nico mentioned.
“What could possibly be higher than doing it with the membership of my life? I need to preserve making historical past right here at San Mamés, with the followers, with my household, and stuffed with enthusiasm.”
Nico Williams on the choice to signal with Athletic Membership till 2035 🏆 👀 pic.twitter.com/f8P2OItnCc
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 16, 2025
Athletic Membership’s director of soccer, Mikel Gonzalez, hailed the choice as a big victory for the membership.
“He’s a singular and distinctive participant, and retaining this expertise at Athletic is incredible information,” mentioned Gonzalez.
Williams’ loyalty is particularly significant given his long-standing connection to the membership. He joined Athletic’s youth academy at simply 11 years outdated, and now, at 22, is among the most enjoyable younger wingers in European soccer.
Williams will proceed to share the pitch together with his older brother, Inaki Williams, who has been named first-team captain for the upcoming season.
“We’ve each all the time dreamed of this second,” Nico shared.
“My brother is a job mannequin for everybody, particularly for me. I believe he’s the most effective individual to be captain, and I can’t wait to see him sporting the armband for a very long time.”
