The star of Athletic Bilbao, Nico Williams, has informed those close to him that he needs to “focus” on Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign and that he is easily distracted, therefore he does not want to hear about rumours about his future.
Williams had a standout season with Athletic last year, finishing with five goals and eleven assists in La Liga. The winger is still developing and has carried that form into this summer’s European Championship.
The 21-year-old has undoubtedly been Spain’s best player in Germany, and because of his impressive performances, he is now the centre of attention and the top players in Europe are vying for his signature this summer.
As they attempt to rebuild their offensive lines for the upcoming campaign, Barcelona and Arsenal are rumoured to be keenly interested in Williams. Meanwhile, Chelsea is reportedly in contact with the player’s representatives regarding a potential move to Stamford Bridge, according to the most recent sources from Spain.
Williams, though, is resolved to ignore any outside chatter and speculation in the lead-up to Spain’s crucial quarterfinal matchup with tournament hosts Germany in Stuttgart on Friday night.
Ultimately, my brother, Inaki Williams, my athletic teammate, holds a special place in my heart. He told the Spanish daily AS, “He has lived a situation similar to mine.”
“He has received offers from sources other than Athletic as well, but I expressed my desire to remain anonymous regarding any information pertaining to outside signings or stories.”
‘They know what I am like, the personality I have, and I don’t like to know because I get distracted easily. I like to concentrate on one thing and pursue it.
“Because my head doesn’t function very well at the end if something comes to me.”
“My parents, my family, and my agent are well aware of who I am and that I prefer not to receive any updates until the European Championship is concluded.”
Williams laughed when asked if he speaks English, saying, “A little bit.”
Williams, who has a €55 million (£46.5m) release clause in his contract, is ‘excited’ by the prospect of Athletic playing in a home Europa League final in Bilbao next season but refused to make any assurances over his future. ‘Of course I am excited. But I am focused on the Euros,’ he added. ‘That is a long way off. Next year, nobody knows what will happen. ‘Whatever has to happen, will come.’
Asked to what extent a successful Euros could change his life, Williams replied: ‘I may be recognised in places where I thought I wouldn’t be. It’s true that life changes. ‘I’ve always said that I’ve played these games at Athletic and they haven’t been seen because we haven’t played European competitions. This year we have. ‘I’ve taken advantage of the opportunity I had, to fulfil another dream, to make myself known. To be able to be or try to be one of the best players in my position. ‘That’s what I try to do every day and what I have to do is continue along this path. It’s going well for me and I have to continue like that.’
