Nico Williams Signs Long-Term Athletic Club Deal with Massive Release Clause

Nico Williams has decided to stay with Athletic Club by signing a new contract until 2035. This contract includes a release clause that will increase to €100 million starting in 2026. Williams will also enjoy a higher salary with bonuses based on his performance.

A previous report confirmed that Nico Williams has signed a long-term contract with Athletic Club until 2035.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Williams and Athletic Club have agreed on a 10-year contract extension that will keep him at the club until June 2035. His previous release clause of €58 million will now increase by over 50%, reaching €95-100 million from 2026. This move makes it more difficult for other top European clubs, which had shown interest, to sign him. Additionally, his new contract could earn him over €10 million per year, with potential bonuses for scoring, assisting, and representing Spain internationally.

A previous report confirmed that Williams’ new deal includes more than a 50% increase in his release clause, raising it to around €95-100 million.

ATHLETIC CLUB’S RESOLVE AND CURRENT SEASON

This summer, Williams rejected offers from Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Arsenal, and Chelsea. His decision comes as Athletic Club attempts to build on recent success in LaLiga. Last season, they finished fourth and secured a spot in the Champions League. Williams played a crucial role, scoring 12 goals and providing 10 assists in 35 league games. He was regarded as one of Spain’s top attacking talents last season and helped Spain reach the semi-finals at Euro 2024.

A previous report confirmed that Williams scored 12 goals and provided 10 assists in LaLiga last season.

A previous report also noted that Athletic Club finished fourth in LaLiga, securing Champions League qualification.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR WILLIAMS AND ATHLETIC?

The new contract ensures long-term stability for both Williams and Athletic Club. The Basque team will begin their 2025-26 LaLiga campaign with the goal of closing in on the top three. They will face Valencia, who were just three points behind them last season, in their opening match. With Williams staying, Athletic Club hopes to qualify for the Champions League. Meanwhile, competitors may have to pay a hefty fee if they want to sign the star winger in the future.

This contract extension raises Williams’ release clause, making it more challenging for rival clubs to recruit him, particularly as Athletic Club has aspirations of competing at the highest levels in European football.