Arsenal and Barcelona target Nico Williams insists he will not let the intense speculation around his future distract him this season. After a summer filled with rumors about a potential move away from Athletic Club, the winger remains committed to his current club and is determined to continue his development in Bilbao.
The 22-year-old forward caught the attention of top European clubs after his impressive performances for Spain during their successful Euro 2024 campaign. Both Arsenal and Barcelona showed significant interest in Williams, whose contract includes a release clause of around €58 million (£48.5 million). Despite the strong interest from these football giants, Williams chose to stay at Athletic Club, even taking on the symbolic No. 10 shirt for the upcoming season.
Although the summer transfer window closed without a move, speculation around Williams’ future continues to swirl. Arsenal and Barcelona are expected to revisit their interest in the young winger next summer, and other top clubs may also join the race for his signature. However, Williams is adamant that the ongoing rumors won’t impact his performances on the pitch.
In a recent interview with *El Mundo*, Williams said, “I’m not thinking about that right now. The [Athletic] fans are very happy that I’m staying here, and I’m very happy to be here. Bilbao is my home, I want to continue enjoying it, and the truth is that I’m very happy.”
Williams’ connection to Athletic Club runs deep. Born in Pamplona, he has grown up through the ranks of the club’s esteemed youth system, and he remains loyal to the club and its passionate fan base. His current focus is on helping the team succeed in both the Spanish league and in Europe. “I think I’m doing really well and trying to take Athletic to the top in Spain and in Europe, with that [Europa League] final in San Mames that excites us so much. That’s the only thing that matters now.”
While transfer talk is an unavoidable part of modern football, Williams maintains a mature and grounded perspective on the situation. He understands the realities of the sport but doesn’t allow the external noise to interfere with his mindset or his form on the field. “In the end, you have to live with it. Football works like this, with many interests from clubs, the media, the players… and there is always noise. It is neither bad nor good, it is what it is, and it does not affect my performance.”
He also acknowledges that the constant speculation can be mentally challenging, but he credits his family and close friends for keeping him grounded. “On a personal level, there have also been tough times in which you stop to think about many scenarios and it is difficult, but I have an incredible family and friends who support me. I want to think that this will not happen to me every summer.”
For now, Nico Williams remains firmly focused on his current season with Athletic Club, determined to make an impact on the field and leave any future decisions until the appropriate time.
