Nico Williams explains why he turned down major clubs to remain at Athletic Bilbao

Nico Williams has rejected claims that his decision to remain with Athletic Bilbao was shaped by negotiations involving Barcelona, insisting he personally chose to stay despite interest from several leading European clubs.

The Spain winger spoke after Athletic Bilbao’s 4-0 win over Getafe on Sunday, bringing renewed attention to his future following comments from his agent, Felix Tainta.

Tainta had revealed that talks with Barcelona took place during the summer of 2024. He said Athletic’s board knew about the discussions, although the Basque club was unhappy with the way Barcelona handled the proposed move.

According to Tainta, the negotiations eventually stalled because of Barcelona’s problems with Financial Fair Play regulations. He said the lack of guarantees over whether Williams could be registered and play for the Catalan club meant he was unwilling to risk the player’s future.

Williams disputed the account, however, saying: “Felix was wrong in his words; things were not like that.”

The 23-year-old added that the final decision over his future belonged to him, his brother and their family.

“Only the people in the family know what is happening within the family,” he said.

Williams also made clear that his desire to continue at Athletic Bilbao had never been in doubt, despite receiving offers from a number of clubs.

“I said no to Barcelona, Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and many other clubs because I am here,” he said.

The winger has since committed his long-term future to Athletic Bilbao by signing a contract that runs until 30 June 2035.

His comments came after a period in which his future had been the subject of considerable discussion, particularly following the disclosure of Barcelona’s approach. Williams’ response was intended to underline that his continued stay in Bilbao was a deliberate choice rather than simply the result of negotiations breaking down.

He also addressed the criticism directed at him on social media, saying online reaction should not be confused with everyday life.

“Social networks are not real life,” Williams said.

The Athletic Bilbao player explained that he preferred to focus on the people around him and on the responsibility he feels towards children who look up to him.

He said he wanted to serve as a role model for those supporters who see him as an example to follow.