Iñaki Williams says Nico wants to prove himself at Athletic Club

Athletic Club forward Iñaki Williams has criticised the timing and manner of comments made by Félix Tainta, the adviser to him and his younger brother Nico, regarding the winger’s failed move to Barcelona.

Speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena SER, Iñaki acknowledged that the issue had created tension but said it had already been discussed internally.

“The timing and manner were inappropriate,” said Iñaki, while also describing Tainta as a father figure to the brothers.

Barcelona move fell through over playing-time concerns

Tainta recently claimed that Nico did not join Barcelona because there was no guarantee he would receive sufficient playing time at the Catalan club.

The comments brought renewed attention to the winger’s decision to remain at Athletic Club rather than move to Barcelona.

Iñaki, however, stressed that the matter had already been addressed within the club and criticised the way and timing of the adviser’s public remarks.

Nico commits his future to Athletic Club

Nico subsequently extended his contract with Athletic Club until June 2035, with his release clause reportedly increasing to around €95m.

According to Iñaki, his younger brother is committed to honouring that agreement and demonstrating his value through his performances on the pitch.

The contract extension keeps Nico at Athletic for the long term, following the failed move to Barcelona and the subsequent discussion surrounding his future.