Athletic Club wing player Nico Williams has admitted that transfer speculation about a move to Barcelona had an impact on its shape earlier in the season. The 22-year-old winger is again a top objective for European clubs that are looking for a Pacy-wide player this summer.
After playing a leading role for Spain at Euro 2024, William's priority became number one for Barcelona, which translated into weeks of speculation. The Basque attacker did not comment on the issue, but had been the focus of reports for some time and had trouble finding his rhythm in the first half of the season.
However, he has been crucial in the progress of Athletic by the knockout phases of the Europa League. Williams was the protagonist against Roma in their round of 16 wins and sealed the draw against Rangers with 12 minutes to go, after which he spoke with the media.
“Everything that happened around me met. There were people who did not understand and criticized it, but that is part of the football story,” he told Cadena Ser.
“I demand a lot of myself to grow as a player, score more goals, give assists and well, I am very happy.”
The Spain star admitted that he had trouble tackling the intense focus of the media spotlight on him.
“I am a 22-year-old child. All that sound influences you, you don't know how to handle things, many things come out in the press … And well, first I was a bit upset and pissed off, in the absence of a better word. With all the love of the whole team and the fans I grew and played my best football.”
However, he was not fully focused on their Europa League run.
“We have made the pressure to be able to play a final at home in motivation,” smiled Williams, while athletics came to San Mames within two games.
Barcelona reportedly decided against a move for Williams this summer, as is the case for Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, with Arsenal The one who most connected the remaining interested party to a move. Athletic will be confronted with Manchester United in the semi -final of the Europa League, and both Williams Brothers will undoubtedly be crucial for their efforts.