Dramatic Turn: Nico Williams will not be an FC Barcelona player

With a video full of symbolism and heart, Nico Williams has cleared up the doubts: he will continue in Bilbao until 2035. Neither Barça, nor Bayern, nor the siren song of millions could overcome the badge. The vandalized mural becomes art and a declaration: Nico is a lion... and he is not moving.

A mural, a hood and a heartfelt decision

Athletic Club has not needed grandiloquent statements to announce one of the most strategic renewals in its history. A video, a wall and a can of spray paint have been enough. In the scene, Nico Williams —camouflaged under a black hood— paints a resounding "2035" on the Barakaldo mural, the very one that was targeted by ultras for fear of his departure. It is the same mural where he appears with his brother Iñaki. The symbol that was erased... is back to stay.

Afterwards, the hooded man enters San Mamés. He takes off his gloves, leaves the spray paint, reveals himself. Nico looks at the camera and says: “When you have to make decisions, what weighs the most is the heart. I am where I want to be, with my people.”

No more was needed. Barça's silence already had an answer.

Eight more years and a clause that skyrockets

Athletic has sealed an agreement with Nico Williams to extend his contract until 2035. Eight more seasons that consolidate the young star as the future —and the present— of the entity. His termination clause, previously estimated at 58 million euros, has increased by more than 50%, dangerously approaching three figures. A shield more typical of a museum jewel than a transferable footballer.

The club does not hide its pride. "His step forward in the face of dizzying offers is a resounding success for Athletic Club. An Athletic WIN (Williams, Iñaki and Nico) in every way," proclaims the official note.

Champions, the number 10 and Muniain's legacy

Nico not only renews: he assumes. He inherits the mythical number 10 from Iker Muniain, spiritual leader of the dressing room until his departure. And he does so with the Champions League on the horizon, ready to defend in Europe the most unique model in world football. It is not just a signature, it is an ideological declaration. In times where clubs compete to sign players, Athletic competes to convince. And he has won.

A loyalty that leaves Barça offside

No one will say it out loud, but in the Camp Nou offices there will be long faces. For the second summer in a row, Nico Williams' name was on FC Barcelona's list of priorities. Bayern had also sounded him out. But this time, as in a play on the wing, the Navarrese left everyone behind.

What seemed like the beginning of a new soap opera ended in an unexpected scene: that of a player who is not looking to escape, but to take root. In an increasingly nomadic football, Nico has decided to stay. Not as an act of resistance, but of conviction.

Lezama, Iñaki and the construction of a symbol

Since arriving at Lezama at just 11 years old, Nico Williams has gone through all the stages of the red and white ideal. His debut came in 2021, just after his 18th birthday. Since then, his progression has been dizzying: MVP of the 2024 European Championship, undisputed international with Spain and 15th on the Ballon d'Or list.

But Athletic sees beyond the showcase. He sees a generational leader, an emblem for young people, and a bridge with the fans who needed new icons after Muniain's departure. And he is not alone: his brother Iñaki, Unai Simón, Sancet or Valverde represent that nucleus that has decided to stay to build, not to escape.

A club, an identity: the pride of remaining unique

The Athletic statement concludes with a message that transcends the sporting: “The Williams are ambitious lions who not only want to win, but want to do it here, with us, aware that in sport, the greater the difficulty, the greater the merit of victory.” It may seem utopian. Or even naive. But in a market that revolves around millions, betting on loyalty and belonging is an almost revolutionary act. Nico Williams has done it. And in doing so, he has not only won Athletic. Football has won.

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