Nico Williams Shocks FC Barcelona, Commits to Athletic Club Until 2035
In a stunning turn of events, Nico Williams has rejected FC Barcelona’s advances and extended his contract with Athletic Club until 2035. This decision comes as a surprise to many, given the intense speculation surrounding Williams’ potential transfer to the Catalan club.
The Drama Unfolds
The transfer saga began when Williams informed Athletic Club of his desire to leave the club to join FC Barcelona. Barcelona had reportedly reached a personal agreement with Williams and were prepared to pay his release clause of approximately €62 million. However, complications arose regarding Williams’ registration with La Liga, with the player demanding a clause that would allow him to leave the club for free if Barcelona failed to register him.
Why Williams Chose Athletic Club
Despite the lucrative offer from FC Barcelona, Williams has chosen to stay with Athletic Club, citing his love for the club and his commitment to the team. In a statement, Williams explained, “When you have to make decisions, for me, what matters most is the heart. I’m where I want to be, with my people – this is my home. Aupa Athletic!” This decision reflects Williams’ dedication to the club and his desire to build his career with the team he loves.
Contract Details
Williams’ new contract extension until 2035 comes with a significant increase in his release clause, which has been bumped up to over 50% more than the previous amount. The new clause is substantially higher than the previous €58 million, demonstrating Athletic Club’s commitment to retaining their star player.
Impact on FC Barcelona’s Transfer Plans
Williams’ decision to stay with Athletic Club has forced FC Barcelona to reassess their transfer strategy. The club may now focus on other young talents, such as Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting de Lisboa or Julián Álvarez from Manchester City. This development has significant implications for Barcelona’s squad building and transfer plans for the upcoming season.
Conclusion
Nico Williams’ decision to extend his contract with Athletic Club until 2035 is a testament to his loyalty and commitment to the team. While FC Barcelona may have been disappointed by this outcome, Williams’ dedication to Athletic Club is undeniable. As the transfer window continues to unfold, it will be interesting to see how this development shapes the careers of both Williams and FC Barcelona. One thing is certain – Nico Williams is committed to Athletic Club for the long haul.
