Athletic Club have issued a powerful statement condemning the defacement of a mural featuring Nico Williams, his brother Iñaki Williams, and Iker Muniain, as speculation intensifies over Nico’s potential move to Barcelona.
The artwork, located in Barakaldo, was targeted by disgruntled fans apparently angered by the Spain international’s reported interest in a transfer.
Nico Williams, whose parents are Ghanaian and who was developed at Athletic’s famed Lezama academy, remains under contract with the Basque club until 2027.
However, recent talks between his agent and Barcelona sporting director Deco have fuelled rumours of an imminent move to Camp Nou, sparking tension among some sections of the Athletic fan base.
In a statement published on Sunday, the club condemned the act and reaffirmed its commitment to its values.
“Supporting Athletic means acting with respect. Athletic’s dignity lies in its people, in its respect and in its coherence with its values,” the statement read.
The club also rejected any suggestion that those behind the vandalism represented the true spirit of Athletic.
“Those who have erased Nico’s image from artist Carlos López’s mural do not represent Athletic. To disrespect one of our own is to disrespect Athletic itself.”
Athletic acknowledged that the growing speculation surrounding Williams’ future could create anxiety among fans, but urged for composure and unity.
“Supporting Athletic means acting with respect, not falling into provocations or losing our manners.”
The club confirmed that it has contacted the original artist, Carlos López, and will assist in restoring Nico’s image on the mural.
“Athletic has a present and a future… with its head held high, with respect and with pride,” the statement concluded, reaffirming its identity as more than a club—“a community united by a special way of understanding football.”
