Nico Williams has made it clear he is staying put at Athletic Club, despite longstanding interest from some of Europe's elite clubs. The 24-year-old winger has publicly revealed that he turned down approaches from Arsenal, Barcelona, PSG, and others.
The focus on Williams' future has been reignited following comments from his agent, Felix Tyenta, who suggested the player was contemplating a departure due to significant interest from various clubs.
However, the player himself has now categorically dismissed such claims.
After Athletic's impressive 4-0 victory over Getafe, Williams stated:
I felt good; it was evident on the pitch.
I’m doing everything possible. The noise outside doesn’t affect me — I want to help Athletic win.
Williams further addressed his agent’s remarks.
My brother Inaki has already spoken clearly about Felix's comments.
When your name gets dragged into such stories, it’s not pleasant.
Felix got it wrong. Things are not as he suggested.
According to Williams, final decisions regarding his future are made solely by him and his family.
The last word is with me, my brother, and our family.
What happens at home is known only to the three of us.
The winger has emphasized he has had plenty of chances to change clubs in the past.
I’ve never doubted that I want to be here.
I’ve received numerous offers, I could have left, but I always knew I wanted to stay.
No one should doubt my desire to be here.
I said ‘no’ to Barcelona, Arsenal, PSG, and many others because I want to play here.
I hope people understand that.
Following Euro 2024, Williams was heavily linked with a big-money move, but that transfer never materialised. Instead, he signed a new contract with Athletic, keeping him at the club until 2034.
This declaration effectively shuts the door on Arsenal's plans to strengthen their left flank. With Gabriel Martinelli's recent sale, the Gunners are in search of a new winger ahead of the 2027 season.
Potential targets reportedly include Keanan Yildiz from Juventus, Kevin Schade from Brentford, and Eli Junior Krupi from Bournemouth.
Interest also existed in Rio Ngumoah of Liverpool, but the young Englishman is already negotiating a new contract with Andoni Iraola's side.
As it stands, Williams’ position is crystal clear: he intends to remain at Athletic.
