"Hope people understand" – Player explains collapse of transfer to Arsenal

Williams rejected Arsenal, Barcelona, PSG and Liverpool to stay at Athletic Bilbao, signing a long-term contract through 2035.

Nico Williams has explained his decision to remain at Athletic Club Bilbao despite interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs. In July 2025, the 24-year-old forward signed a new long-term contract with the Basque side until 2035, turning down concrete advances from Barcelona, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain.

Williams clarified comments made by his agent Félix Tainta, who had publicly named the clubs that pursued the Spanish international. "My intention to be here cannot be questioned," Williams said after Athletic's 4-0 win over Getafe. "I told Barca, Arsenal, PSG, and many others no, because I want to be here. I hope people understand."

The forward, who was part of Spain's 2024 European Championship winning squad, has been with Athletic since their academy and has made 207 appearances, scoring 38 goals and providing 37 assists. His form has dipped this season with just one goal in eight matches.