Athletic Bilbao has recently clarified the situation of its winger NicoWilliams following statements from agent FélixTainta. In the “Los Fulanos” podcast, Tainta stated that the player had considered leaving the club in the summer of 2025, when Barcelona bid for him again without success. According to the representative, "Nico had the idea of being able to leave. At Athletic you know the limitations, you know that you are not going to win a Champions League, possibly a League." Given the lack of registration guarantees from the federation, the player decided to renew his contract with the León club until 2035, which, according to Tainta himself, “made a statement about where he wants to be.”
Athletic coach EdinTerzic was questioned in the press conference prior to the match against Valencia at the Mestalla about Williams' situation. Terzic maintained a discreet stance, but emphasized that his priority is the team and the relationship with the player. “I'm happy that Nico is part of my team, everyone and their teammates love having Nico,” he commented. The coach added that Williams' renewal “made a statement about where he wants to be” and that “what other people say about us doesn't matter to me.” In response to speculation, Terzic stressed that the most important representative he knows of Williams is his own brother, IñakiWilliams, and that he prefers to focus on the club's internal affairs.
NicoWilliams returned to Athletic injured from the Spanish team and, a few days later, shared a controversial message on social networks criticizing the red and white fans, before deleting it. Agent Tainta and coach Terzic have tried to calm the noise surrounding the player, highlighting the confidence and stability that the club provides him. Terzic concluded that “I enjoy Nico every day” and that “I am sure that we will have many years together.”
With the renewal in force, Williams will remain at Athletic until 2035, while the club continues to focus on its sporting objectives. The next match against Valencia will be an opportunity for the team to demonstrate its cohesion and the importance of the stability of its key players.