Nico Williams Commits His Future to Athletic Club with Long-Term Contract

Nico Williams has confirmed he will stay at Athletic Club, announcing a new contract extension that will keep him in Bilbao until 2035.

According to a previous report, he announced the extension after considering offers that included a move to Barcelona.

WILLIAMS TURNS DOWN BARCELONA AND STAYS IN BILBAO

The 22-year-old winger was heavily linked with a move to Barcelona this summer. Reports suggested personal terms had been agreed, and his previous release clause of €58 million made a transfer seem likely. However, Williams hesitated due to doubts about Barcelona’s ability to register new signings amid ongoing financial issues. Athletic Club has a €58 million release clause for Nico Williams, raising his release clause by more than 50% and ending speculation about his future.

IMPACT OF WILLIAMS’ DECISION

Williams was one of La Liga’s standout performers last season, scoring 12 goals and providing 10 assists in 36 matches. His performances also shone at Euro 2024, where he helped Spain reach the semi-finals. Athletic Club finished fourth in La Liga, securing Champions League qualification for the first time since 2015. Williams’s decision is a huge boost for the Basque side, as they aim to build on last season’s strong campaign and challenge the league’s top teams again.

According to a previous report, he scored 12 goals and had 10 assists last season, contributing significantly to Athletic’s success.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ATHLETIC AND WILLIAMS

Athletic Club will begin their 2025/26 campaign with renewed optimism, with Williams remaining their star player. Their next match is a Champions League qualifier against Red Bull Salzburg, who finished second in the Austrian Bundesliga. With Williams secured long term, Athletic Club hope their return to the Champions League can convince Williams to stay and push closer to the very top.

According to previous insights, Athletic Club will look to build on last season’s momentum as they enter European competition again.