Spain star Nico Williams shocked the football world when he committed his future to Athletic Bilbao until 2035. The 22-year-old winger turned down advances from Barcelona and Bayern Munich to sign a massive 10-year deal. His release clause jumped 50 percent from the previous 62 million euros. Williams said his heart made the decision for him because Bilbao feels like home. The Spanish international wants to stay with his people and his family club.
Williams has spent his entire career at Bilbao after coming through their youth academy. The talented forward made his first team debut at just 18 years old back in April 2021. He has netted 31 goals across 167 matches for the Basque club. His older brother Inaki also plays for Athletic Bilbao. The siblings helped their team finish fourth last season and qualify for the Champions League.
Barcelona thought they had secured Williams after agreeing personal terms with the player. Angry Athletic fans even removed Williams from a mural featuring both brothers. Club officials questioned whether Barcelona could actually afford to sign players given their financial troubles. La Liga rules prevent Barcelona from spending more money than they earn. Williams rejected the move despite Barcelona president Joan Laporta publicly pursuing him.
Football clubs are handing out longer contracts to secure their best players. Manchester City tied down Erling Haaland until 2034 earlier this year. Chelsea has made long-term deals their specialty with Cole Palmer signed through 2033. UEFA changed rules limiting how clubs can spread transfer fees across contract years. Williams joins a growing list of stars choosing security over short-term deals.
Williams has spent his entire career at Bilbao after coming through their youth academy. The talented forward made his first team debut at just 18 years old back in April 2021. He has netted 31 goals across 167 matches for the Basque club. His older brother Inaki also plays for Athletic Bilbao. The siblings helped their team finish fourth last season and qualify for the Champions League.
Barcelona thought they had secured Williams after agreeing personal terms with the player. Angry Athletic fans even removed Williams from a mural featuring both brothers. Club officials questioned whether Barcelona could actually afford to sign players given their financial troubles. La Liga rules prevent Barcelona from spending more money than they earn. Williams rejected the move despite Barcelona president Joan Laporta publicly pursuing him.
Football clubs are handing out longer contracts to secure their best players. Manchester City tied down Erling Haaland until 2034 earlier this year. Chelsea has made long-term deals their specialty with Cole Palmer signed through 2033. UEFA changed rules limiting how clubs can spread transfer fees across contract years. Williams joins a growing list of stars choosing security over short-term deals.
