Athletic Club’s Nico Williams Reaffirms Commitment
Athletic Club’s Nico Williams has reaffirmed his commitment to the Basque team after rejecting several lucrative offers this summer, including interest from Barcelona. The Catalan giants had previously attempted to secure his signature, offering to meet his substantial release clause of €58 million (approximately $67 million).
Contract Extension and Future Aspirations
Recently signing an extension to his contract which now runs through June 2035, the Spanish international expressed his enthusiasm for continuing his journey with Athletic. He stated,
“The upcoming season holds significant promise, especially with ambitious goals like the Champions League on the horizon. What could be better than pursuing that dream with my lifelong club? I am eager to contribute to our legacy at San Mamés, alongside our dedicated fans and family.”
Loyalty Amidst Interest from Top Clubs
Having emerged as a standout forward, Williams is a target for prominent clubs like Bayern Munich, Arsenal, and Chelsea, but he remains steadfast in his loyalty to Athletic Club. Mikel Gonzalez, the club’s director of football, hailed Nico’s decision, emphasizing his unique talent and the significance of keeping him in the squad.
“It’s fantastic news for us to retain such an exceptional player at Athletic,”
Gonzalez remarked.
Family Ties and Team Dynamics
In a heartfelt moment, Nico will also have the opportunity to play alongside his brother, Iñaki Williams, who is set to captain the first team this season.
“We’ve both always aspired to reach this point,”
Nico expressed. He also praised Iñaki as an ideal leader, stating,
“He’s a role model for many and certainly for me. I look forward to seeing him lead the team while I contribute to our goals.”
Athletic Club values family ties, and Gonzalez further acknowledged the importance of this dynamic within the team, expressing delight at both brothers remaining integral to the club’s future.
Other Football News
In other news from the football world, Jude Bellingham is expected to be sidelined for three months following surgery, while Atlético Madrid has finalized a deal for Argentine star Thiago Almada, and Arsenal’s target Mosquera has confirmed his departure from Valencia.
