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Nico Williams signs long-term extension with Athletic Club

tolu-shotade
04 Jul 2025
Tolu Shotade 04 Jul 2025
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  • Nico Williams signs 8-year contract extension with Athletic Club.
  • Rejects Barcelona transfer; remains loyal to his boyhood club.
  • Helped Athletic Club win Copa del Rey in 2023-24, first major trophy in 40 years.
Nico Williams
Nico Williams

Nico Williams on Friday quelled any reports of a proposed move to Barcelona by signing a long-term contract extension with Athletic Club.

Williams, whose previous contract was due to expire in 2027, has penned a new eight-year deal, which will see him remain with the Basque outfit until 2035.

The Spain international was reportedly top on the list of transfer targets for Barcelona this summer, with various talks already held between both parties. However, he has chosen to remain with his boyhood club and continue his career at San Mames for the next decade.

"When decisions have to be made, for me, what weighs most is the heart. I'm where I want to be, with my people, this is my home. Aupa Athletic!" the 22-year-old said.

Williams, who made his Athletic Club debut in April 2021, has scored 31 goals and provided 30 assists in 167 appearances across all competitions for the Spanish side, including 11 goals and seven assists in 45 games last season.

He was instrumental in their Copa del Rey success in 2023-24, helping the club win their first major trophy in 40 years.