Tension is running high around Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, with the club finally speaking out about his future. In a recent interview with La Vanguardia, Deco, Barcelona’s sporting director, dropped a bombshell: Williams wants to join the Catalan giants. “Nico and other players are showing interest in coming to Barcelona,” Deco said. “If the circumstances are right, we’ll try to make it happen. We’ve had our eyes on him since last season.”
The situation just took a darker turn. A mural of Nico and his brother Inaki Williams was vandalized, with Nico’s face scrubbed out and replaced with a scathing message: “Whether you stay or leave, you’ve lost our respect.” The image is a stark reminder of the pressure players face when transfer rumors swirl.
A Club’s Pride and Values
Athletic Bilbao responded quickly, condemning the vandalism and standing by their player. “Defending Athletic means acting with respect,” the club stated. “Our dignity is reflected in our people, values, and how we treat our own. Nico is one of us, and we’ll protect him.” The club’s statement sends a clear message: loyalty and respect are non-negotiable.
The controversy surrounding Nico Williams’ potential departure has sparked heated debate on social media, with fans weighing in on the player’s future. Amidst the chaos, Athletic Bilbao remains resolute, prioritizing their values and the well-being of their players. As the summer transfer window heats up, one thing is certain – the fate of Nico Williams will be closely watched by fans and clubs alike.
The Athletic Club took to Twitter to reiterate their commitment to respecting their players and values:
ℹ Defending Athletic means acting with respect. A club’s dignity is also reflected in its coherence with its values and how it protects its own. Those who erased Nico Williams’ image from the mural do not represent Athletic. pic.twitter.com/2RczlDGyid
— Athletic Club (@AthleticClub) June 22, 2025