Nico Williams Commits Future to Athletic Club with Landmark New Deal

Nico Williams has signed a long-term contract extension with Athletic Club, keeping him in Bilbao until 2035 and raising his release clause to around €95-100 million. The extension signals a strong commitment from one of Spain’s brightest talents to his boyhood club.

A previous report confirmed that this new deal will include a release clause around this amount.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The highly rated winger agreed a new ten-year contract with Athletic Club, which includes a significant increase in his release clause—more than 50% higher than before. The deal was finalized after director Mikel Gonzalez received the go-ahead from Williams, repeating a tradition of close negotiations dating back to summer 2024. Williams emphasized his affection for the club, saying, “I am where I want to be, with my people, this is my home.”

ATHLETIC’S AMBITIONS AND WILLIAMS’ IMPACT

Nico Williams was one of the most sought-after young players in Europe after an impressive 2024-25 season, helping Athletic finish 4th in LaLiga and earn a Champions League spot. Williams contributed 12 goals and 10 assists in 35 league appearances, cementing his reputation as a key figure. His renewal aligns with a wave of contract extensions by key teammates and management, underlining Athletic’s ambition to build a team capable of challenging Spain’s biggest clubs.

According to a previous report, Nico Williams scored 12 goals and 10 assists in La Liga last season, which marked a strong performance.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ATHLETIC CLUB?

With Williams’ future secured, Athletic turn their focus to the upcoming Champions League qualification campaign and a crucial LaLiga opener against Sevilla. The club aims to capitalize on its momentum, with the new release clause protecting their star as European giants monitor his progress. The team is poised for a competitive season, just two points behind third-placed Atlético Madrid and three ahead of Real Sociedad in the previous campaign.