In a stunning development, Spanish winger Nico Williams has signed a new 10-year contract with Athletic Bilbao, committing to the Basque club until June 30, 2035, and ending speculation about a potential transfer to FC Barcelona or other European giants.
The announcement, made on July 4, 2025, as reported by Al Jazeera and BBC Sport, includes an increased release clause of €95–100 million, a significant jump from the previous €58 million, signalling Bilbao’s intent to secure their star player.
Williams, a key figure in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, cited his emotional connection to the club, stating, “I am where I want to be, with my people, this is my home”.
The 22-year-old, who scored 31 goals in 167 appearances and helped Bilbao win the 2024 Copa del Rey, had been heavily linked with Barcelona, who reportedly agreed on personal terms and planned to trigger his release clause.
Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, also held talks with Williams’ representatives, viewing him as a potential rival to Bukayo Saka.
However, Williams’ decision to stay, celebrated in a video where he painted “2035” on a vandalized Bilbao mural, has left Barcelona “shocked and angry” and forced them to pivot to targets like Liverpool’s Luis Diaz.
Barcelona’s failure to secure Williams stems partly from La Liga’s financial restrictions, with president Javier Tebas confirming the club’s inability to register new players.
Posts on X, including from @FabrizioRomano, highlight Barcelona’s frustration after Williams cut short his vacation to finalize a move, only to renew with Bilbao.
Fans expressed mixed reactions, noting earlier optimism about a Barcelona deal, while others praised Williams’ loyalty to his boyhood club, where he plays alongside his brother, Inaki Williams.
Williams’ extension, alongside renewals from teammates like Unai Simon and Oihan Sancet, underscores Bilbao’s ambitious project, bolstered by their 2025/26 Champions League qualification.
The move has sparked debate about loyalty versus ambition, with Bilbao’s statement taking a swipe at Barcelona: “His step forward in the face of dizzying offers is a resounding success for Athletic Club, a true Athletic WIN”.
