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Nico Williams signed an eight-year extension with Athletic Bilbao, ending Barcelona transfer rumors. His release clause rose by over 50%. Williams stressed loyalty to his club.
Athletic Bilbao tie down Williams with eight-year extension amid Barcelona links (AP)
Winger Nico Williams has signed a new eight-year contract extension with Athletic Bilbao, keeping him at the club until 2035, the LaLiga club announced on Friday. This move puts an end to speculation about a potential transfer to Barcelona.
Athletic Bilbao also revealed that Williams’ transfer release clause has been increased by more than 50%. Spanish media reports indicated that the previous clause was valued at around 62 million euros ($73.01 million).
The 22-year-old Spain international, whose previous contract was set to expire in 2027, is considered one of Athletic’s most valuable players, having made 167 appearances for the team in all competitions.
What Did Nico Williams Say?
“When it comes to making decisions, for me, the most important thing is to listen to your heart. I am where I want to be, with my people, this is my home,” Williams said in a statement.
Last month, Athletic rebuked fans who vandalised a mural featuring Williams and his brother Inaki, who also plays for the club, amidst reports linking him with a move to LaLiga champions Barcelona. The mural was defaced after Barca sporting director Deco suggested they might target the winger, who scored in last year’s European Championship final against England, helping Spain secure a record fourth title.
Who Is Nico Williams?
Nico Williams (Iruñea, 2002) joined Athletic Club as an Alevín player in the 2013/14 season, one year after his brother Iñaki arrived at Lezama. Since then, he has progressed through all the development stages at Athletic, making his debut as a León on April 28, 2021, at just 18 years old. In his five seasons with the first team, he has played 167 official matches, won a Cup title, and qualified for the Europa League (reaching the semi-finals) and for the Champions League this past season.
Nico Williams’ impact on Athletic Club in recent seasons has been significant. His pace and speed have made a difference in attack, scoring 31 goals, creating numerous chances, and consistently troubling opposing defences. Beyond his impressive performance on the pitch, Nico Williams has had a substantial international impact, becoming a valuable ambassador for Athletic Club globally. He was named MVP of the Euro 2024 final, where he won with Spain, and was nominated for the Ballon d’Or, finishing 15th.
(With inputs from Reuters)
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha…Read More
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha… Read More
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