Nico Williams has opened up on his decision to reject a high-profile transfer to Barcelona, choosing instead to commit his future to Athletic Club with a fresh ten-year contract.
The 23-year-old winger appeared to be on the verge of completing a switch to the Catalan giants, but ultimately walked away from the move.
Reports suggested the lack of assurance from Barcelona regarding his registration played a key role in his last-minute change of heart.
Now preparing for a demanding campaign under manager Ernesto Valverde, Williams shared his thoughts in an interview with ESPN.
“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,” he said. “What could be better than doing it with the club of my life? I would like to continue making history here at San Mames, with the fans, with my family, and with a lot of enthusiasm.”
A major factor in his decision was the opportunity to continue playing alongside his older brother, Iñaki Williams, who was recently named captain of the team.
“We’ve both always dreamed of this moment,” Nico added. “My brother is a role model for everyone, especially for me. I think he’s the best person to be captain, and I can’t wait to see him wearing the armband for a long time.”
Nico Williams is set to make his long-awaited Champions League debut in the 2025–26 season, but it will be with Athletic Club, not Barcelona.
He’ll share the historic moment with his elder brother, Iñaki, as the duo helps guide the Basque side back into Europe’s elite competition for the first time since the 2014–15 campaign.
“This is fantastic news for the club,” said Athletic Club’s sporting director, Mikel González. “He’s a rare and extraordinary talent, and keeping him at Athletic is a huge boost for everyone.”
