Bilbao rocks up with a statement. Spain’s nimble winger, Nico Williams, has put pen to paper on a new decade-long contract at Athletic Bilbao, keeping him at the club until 30 June 2035. The move is a firm slap in the face to suitors.
Williams, 22, had turned heads. Rumours swirled of interest from Barcelona. Bayern Munich also lurked in the background. His previous deal was set to expire in 2027. Now, that’s history.
The new contract brings more than just extended years. Athletic Bilbao has reportedly boosted its release clause—believed to have stood at around €62m (£53m)—by a hefty 50%.
Williams was clear on his motivations: “When decisions have to be made, for me, what weighs most is the heart. I’m where I want to be, with my people, this is my home.”
- A product of Bilbao’s youth setup, Nico has followed in the footsteps of his elder brother, Iñaki Williams.
- At 18, he debuted in April 2021.
- Since then? A solid record of 31 goals in 167 appearances.
- He was pivotal in last season’s fourth-place La Liga finish—securing Champions League football for 2025–26.
- On the international stage, he starred at Euro 2024, netting a goal in Spain’s 2‑1 triumph over England in the final.
Whispers claimed Barcelona had already reached personal terms with Williams. Supporters even removed him from a mural featuring the Williams brothers. Ouch.
Athletic responded. The club took discussions to La Liga, querying Barça’s “ability to sign players” amid their ongoing financial trouble.
Athletic claimed they’d uncovered evidence of interest via statements made by their sporting director, Deco: “Deco’s statements add to the public statements made by FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta himself, admitting that the Blaugrana club ‘is working to be within the 1:1 rule’…”
That fiscal rule? Teams can only spend what they earn. Barça must stay within those limits to register players. Athletic want transparency. No surprises. Not anymore.
Victory for Athletic Bilbao. Nico Williams stays. The Basque club retains one of Spain’s brightest talents. The European gaze now turns to Bilbao, where a fresh era begins under the shadow of Champions League nights.
