Nico Williams's agents reveal reason for his refusal to join Barcelona

Nico Williams's agents have provided a clear explanation for the Athletic Bilbao forward's decision to reject a summer transfer to Barcelona. Williams became a prime transfer target for numerous European clubs following his outstanding performances for both his club and country over the past year.

An Impressive Last Season for Nico Williams

In the previous season, the forward netted eight goals and delivered 16 assists in 37 competitive appearances, contributing to his team's Copa del Rey victory and a fifth-place finish. Additionally, Williams started six of Spain's seven matches at Euro 2024, tallying three goal contributions to help his country secure the championship.

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Nico rejected Barcelona , reason explained 

Barcelona made a strong push to secure his signature, although there were also interest from Premier League clubs. Despite Barcelona's efforts, they were ultimately left disappointed as Williams chose to remain at San Mames for at least another year.

The player's representatives, Felix Tainta and Juan Oyaga, disclosed that their client rejected a summer transfer as he is determined to spend another season with Athletic Bilbao.

"The lad has had an incredible year and has confirmed it, for me, by being the best player in the European Championships," Tainta and Oyaga told AS.

"Obviously we have had a lot of movement, a lot of travelling and being happy. It is compressed into a very short time, and at the end of the transfer window we are a bit stressed, but we like it. The boy has decided to stay, he wanted to stay for another year and work," they added.

What might have influenced Nico's decision ?

Nico Williams held a deep emotional bond with Athletic Bilbao, having progressed through the club's youth academy and emerging as a vital player alongside his elder brother, Inaki Williams. After the team's impressive fifth-place finish last season, Nico is eagerly looking forward to the chance to participate alongside his brother in a UEFA competition for the first time.

It is possible that the location of the Europa League final has been playing a part in Williams's decision to continue with the Basque club. The 2024-25 Europa League final is set to take place at Athletic Bilbao's San Mames stadium, offering Williams the opportunity to vie for a European trophy alongside his brother at their cherished club's home.

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