Nico Williams Commits Future to Athletic Club With Long-Term Extension

Nico Williams has ended the guesswork about his future. He has signed a new deal with Athletic Club that will keep him in Bilbao until June 2035. This extension increases his release clause by more than 50%. It also includes a big salary raise. This ends Barcelona’s chase because of registration issues.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The 22-year-old winger has agreed to a ten-year deal with Athletic Club. This makes history with one of the longest contracts in top European football. The new deal boosts his release clause from €58 million to a number likely close to €100 million. Williams said, “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.” This deal ends Barcelona’s attempts to sign Williams because the Catalan club could not beat La Liga registration rules to finish the transfer.

According to a previous report, Athletic Club was in negotiations with Barcelona over Williams’ €58 million release clause.

ATHLETIC’S AMBITIONS AND WILLIAMS’ IMPACT

Williams was a key player last season, scoring 12 goals and giving 10 assists in La Liga. Athletic Club finished fourth in La Liga, earning a spot in next season’s Champions League. The club is building a young team, with Williams joining stars like Unai Simón and Oihan Sancet in extending their stays. His promise shows Athletic’s goal to compete at the highest level with homegrown talent.

Williams had a strong season with Athletic Club according to a recent report.

LOOKING AHEAD: SEASON START AND TRANSFER IMPLICATIONS

With Williams staying, Athletic Club will focus on their Champions League return for the 2025/26 season. Their league season begins in mid-August against Sevilla, who finished in the bottom half last season. For Barcelona, the failure of the Williams deal means they must search elsewhere to boost their attack. The Catalan side opens against Valencia, needing new players to close the gap on champions Real Madrid, who finished nine points ahead last season.

As reported, Athletic Club’s aim was to convince Williams to stay by securing their Champions League return, which they have achieved.