Spanish star Nico Williams confirmed on Tuesday that he will remain at Athletic Club. He returned to training early and told fans that he is looking forward to the upcoming season. Despite being Barcelona’s top target and also attracting interest from Paris Saint-Germain, he decided to stay at Athletic Club for at least another season.
Nico’s €58 million release clause made him a highly attractive option for top European clubs this summer, but Nico decided that staying in the Basque Country was more beneficial for him, despite the huge pressure from Barcelona. According to an analysis by Marca, here are some of the key reasons behind Nico’s decision to stay.
Firstly, he feels that staying at the San Mamés Stadium is beneficial for his development. Athletic Club are set to participate in European competition, which is his first such opportunity, and the first time he will be playing two or three games a week. Currently, he plays in an Athletic Club team tailored for him, and under the leadership of coach Ernesto Valverde, he has continued to improve over the past two seasons.
Secondly, his close relationship with his family and brother, Iñaki Williams, also contributed to his decision to stay at Athletic Club for at least another season – a bond that is very important to young Nico, and he also promised to fight alongside his brother in European competitions.
Although a move to Barcelona, especially Paris Saint-Germain, would have made him richer, Athletic Club has already provided him with sufficient remuneration, offering him a new contract less than 12 months ago. Another important figure is his agent, Félix Tánta, who has a good relationship with Athletic Club and does not solely focus on money. Tánta could have benefited greatly from the transfer, but he believes that Nico staying at Athletic Club is the best choice.
Barcelona have now turned their attention to Dani Olmo, with reports suggesting that sporting director Deco is in talks with him in Leipzig. For Athletic Club and club president Jon Uriarte, keeping Nico will be seen as a major victory. It also builds a certain reputation for Nico, which will undoubtedly be different when he eventually decides to leave.
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