Nico Williams’ summer has been full of twists, and it’s now causing tension inside Athletic Bilbao’s dressing room.
The 21-year-old winger came very close to joining Barcelona but eventually surprised many by committing his long-term future to the Basque club.
Williams signed an incredible 10-year contract running until 2035, making him Bilbao’s highest-paid player. His release clause also jumped from €58 million to €100 million. However, this new deal hasn’t gone down well with some senior teammates.
According to Spanish outlet El Nacional, players like defender Dani Vivian and midfielder Oihan Sancet, both key to Ernesto Valverde’s system, believe they deserve wages closer to Williams’, given their own importance to the squad.
There’s also a growing feeling among some players that Williams gets special treatment from the club. Last season, despite his big talent, the Spanish international only managed 10 goal contributions in 29 La Liga games.
He also missed 10 matches due to a string of minor injuries, which frustrated his colleagues. Off the pitch, his “very intense nightlife” has reportedly raised concerns about his professionalism and commitment.
Williams’ near-move to Barcelona earlier this summer also fueled doubts about his loyalty. Those close to him suggested he feared Barça wouldn’t be able to register him due to financial issues.
Later, club president Joan Laporta revealed that Barcelona’s real priority was securing a loan move for Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford instead.
The tension in Bilbao comes just days after their 3-0 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, a result that has added pressure on Valverde to settle the unrest.
With the new season fast approaching, the manager will have to work quickly to restore harmony and keep his squad focused on the challenges ahead.
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