Nico Williams tells why he turned down a transfer to Barcelona to sign a new 10-year contract with Athletic Club.

Nico Williams has finally explained why he rejected a move to Barcelona in preference of signing a new contract with Athletic Club. The Catalan giants were very close to signing the winger this summer, but the 23-year-old ultimately elected to stay in Bilbao, signing a new ten-year contract that would keep him at San Mames until 2035.

Williams explains the Barcelona snub.
Signed a 10-year contract with Athletic Club and outlined aspirations for Bilbao.

What happened?

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After failing to secure a deal for Williams last summer, Barcelona had once again emerged as favourites to capture the Spanish winger in the current transfer window, but the 23-year-old ultimately elected to stay at his hometown club. The inability to sign Williams has been viewed as a tremendous humiliation for the La Liga champions.

Williams has now explained why he chose to remain in Bilbao after reportedly agreeing personal terms with Barcelona. He also discussed the goals he hopes to attain with Athletic Club in the 2025-26 season.

What Williams Said

Nico Williams tells why he turned down a transfer to Barcelona to sign a new 10-year contract with Athletic Club.

Williams told ESPN, “I believe we have a very long season ahead of us.” We have really ambitious titles, such as the Champions League, which everyone wants to participate in. What could be better than doing it with my lifelong club? I hope to continue making history here at San Mames, with the fans, my family, and a lot of passion.

Williams commented on continuing to play alongside his brother Inaki, who has been named Athletic Club’s new captain: “We’ve both always dreamed of this day. My brother is a role model for everyone, including me. I think he’s the finest person to be captain, and I can’t wait to watch him wear the armband for a while.