Nico Williams Commits Future to Athletic Bilbao with Landmark 10-Year Deal

A Statement of Loyalty Amid Transfer Speculation

In a bold move that bucks the trend of modern football, Nico Williams has signed a remarkable 10-year contract extension with Athletic Bilbao, committing his future to the Basque club until 30 June 2035.

The 22-year-old winger, who was widely expected to leave this summer amid serious interest from Barcelona and Bayern Munich, has instead chosen loyalty over glamour. The decision to remain at his boyhood club comes despite reported personal terms being agreed with Barça.

"When decisions have to be made, for me, what weighs most is the heart. I'm where I want to be, with my people – this is my home," said Williams, reaffirming his emotional bond with the club and the city.

Contract Details and Release Clause Increase

Previously contracted until 2027, Williams' new deal marks one of the longest in the history of La Liga and sends a strong message to Europe's elite. According to reports, the winger’s €62 million (£53 million) release clause has now increased by 50%, bringing it to approximately €93 million (£80 million).

Athletic Bilbao confirmed the contract extension and hinted at the strengthened clause but stopped short of confirming the exact figure. This strategic move comes as Barcelona continue to struggle under La Liga’s stringent ‘1:1 rule’, which limits clubs’ ability to register new players if they are not financially compliant.

Background: The Pursuit by Barcelona

Earlier this month, it was widely reported that Barcelona had made serious progress in their pursuit of Williams, with personal terms agreed between the two parties. The situation sparked tension between the two clubs, particularly after Barça sporting director Deco publicly admitted interest in signing a player from Athletic’s first team.

Athletic Bilbao subsequently released a strongly-worded statement confirming they had contacted La Liga to assess Barcelona’s financial position, particularly in relation to player registration rules.

"Given Deco’s comments and the financial situation at FC Barcelona, it was our legitimate right to understand their capacity to sign players," the club said. "Statements from both Deco and president Joan Laporta clearly show they are not currently within the parameters of La Liga's 1:1 rule."

That rule limits spending to the club’s income, and given Barcelona’s ongoing battle with debt and wage control, any major signing remains under tight scrutiny by La Liga officials.

A Career Rooted in Bilbao

Nico Williams joined Athletic Bilbao’s academy at a young age and followed in the footsteps of his older brother, Iñaki Williams, who has become a club legend with more than 400 appearances. Nico made his senior debut at the age of 18 in April 2021 and has since become a key figure for both club and country.

In total, he has played 167 matches, scoring 31 goals and assisting many more. His pace, dribbling, and creativity from wide areas were instrumental in Athletic’s fourth-place finish in La Liga last season, securing Champions League football for the 2025-26 campaign.

His performances on the domestic stage have been matched by his rise with the national team.

Hero of Euro 2024

Williams played a starring role for Spain during their triumphant Euro 2024 campaign. The winger was pivotal in the final, scoring the opening goal in a 2-1 win over England to help La Roja claim the title in Germany.

The tournament served as a showcase for his maturity, skill, and composure under pressure – attributes that likely intensified the interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Yet, despite the temptation of joining a Champions League regular like Barcelona, he has opted to remain at the club where he developed.

A Community Divided Then United

News of Barcelona’s interest had caused a brief rift within the Athletic Bilbao fanbase. Supporters in the city took the unusual step of removing Nico Williams from a mural that also featured his brother Iñaki, fearing that a departure would undermine the unity and values the club holds dear.

However, Wednesday's announcement has flipped the narrative. Social media was awash with praise for Williams, with fans lauding his decision as a "throwback to a more loyal era." The club shop reportedly experienced a surge in shirt sales featuring his name and number following the news.

Why This Deal Matters for Spanish Football

In an era where top talents often seek the financial and competitive benefits of joining Europe’s elite, Williams’ decision to remain in Bilbao is a refreshing change.

This move not only solidifies Athletic Bilbao’s ambitions for next season but also sends a powerful message that players can achieve success and recognition without switching allegiances.

It also intensifies the pressure on Barcelona, who have publicly acknowledged their need to work within tight financial constraints. Missing out on Williams could further dent their credibility in the transfer market and shift focus onto younger, cheaper alternatives.

A Future Still Full of Possibility

Though committed to Athletic Bilbao, Nico Williams remains one of the most sought-after players in world football. Should a club wish to sign him in the future, they will now have to meet a significantly increased release clause — and perhaps more importantly, they’ll have to persuade him to leave the club and city he calls home.

With Champions League football on the horizon, a club rejuvenated by young talent, and his brother still by his side, the future at San Mamés looks bright for Williams.