Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal: Friendship, Flair, and a Future at Barcelona

From Euros Joy to Camp Nou Dreams

The image of Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal dancing in celebration during Spain’s emphatic win over Georgia at Euro 2024 became one of the defining visuals of the tournament. It was more than just a joyful moment between two young stars—it symbolised Spain’s new generation and their cultural diversity.

Both wingers played starring roles in Spain’s triumph in Germany. Williams, now 22, scored twice, including the opening goal in the final against England, while Yamal—who only turned 17 the day before the final—recorded a goal and four assists. Their chemistry on the pitch captured the imagination, and now it seems their friendship is set to blossom further at Barcelona.

Barcelona Bound: Williams and Yamal Reunited

Williams has now agreed terms for a €60 million move from Athletic Club to Barcelona, joining his great friend Yamal at the Catalan giants. According to reports, he informed his boyhood club of his desire to leave, a decision made easier by his strong connections in the Barca dressing room.

Leaving Athletic Club, where his older brother Inaki still plays, was no small choice. But Williams won’t be alone in his new environment. Beyond Yamal, he shares close bonds with several other Barcelona players.

A Friendship Born in Red

The pair met during Yamal’s first call-up to the Spain senior team in September 2023. At just 16 years and 57 days, Yamal became Spain’s youngest-ever player and goalscorer during a European qualifier against Georgia. Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde introduced the two, sensing they'd hit it off.

"I remember the first day I met him. He was more timid than now," said Williams in a January interview with Jorge Valdano. "When I first trained with him, I said 'hostia' (bloody hell). He’s still so humble. If he ever gets too big-headed, I’ll be there to give him a slap on the back of the neck."

Their bond is refreshingly natural. In a video shared by the national team, the two discussed everything from playing rock-paper-scissors for water bottles to inventing dances inspired by TikTok. Their shared love of reggaeton, TikTok, and football has only deepened their connection.

Williams Already Has Allies in Blaugrana Colours

During Barcelona’s final La Liga game of the 2024-25 season—a 3-0 win over Athletic Club—several Barca players made a beeline for Williams at full-time. Raphinha and Balde shared words in private, Fermin Lopez delivered a friendly slap, and Ansu Fati exchanged shirts and a hug.

Williams is particularly close to Fermin, who described him as his best friend within the Spain camp. He also shares strong friendships with Pedri, Dani Olmo, Gavi, Eric Garcia, and Pau Cubarsi—many of whom he played with at under-21 level.

When Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign concluded, Williams and Yamal holidayed together in Marbella, along with several other international teammates.

Why He Didn't Join Sooner

Last summer, many believed Williams would make the switch to Barcelona, but the club’s struggles with La Liga’s salary cap meant they couldn’t guarantee registration. His family preferred he remain in Bilbao, especially with Athletic Club competing in the Europa League, whose final was held at their San Mames stadium.

Even as speculation cooled, ties to Barcelona remained. When fresh rumours surfaced in mid-June, Yamal posted a celebratory photo of the two together—echoing the cheeky recruitment tactics once used by Pique and Puyol to bring Cesc Fabregas back to Camp Nou.

A New Era for Barcelona’s Attack

The prospect of Williams and Yamal combining at club level has Barcelona fans dreaming. Their link-up at international level has shown both flair and maturity beyond their years. "Hopefully I’ll be able to play every week with him," said Yamal on TV show El Hormiguero. "His decision is to stay at Athletic now, but I’d love for him to come."

Now, that dream looks to be becoming a reality. With Barcelona looking to build a new era under their next manager, a forward line featuring two of Spain’s most exciting talents could be the foundation of the club’s next great chapter.