Athletic Club icon defends Nico Williams ahead of Barcelona move – ‘Has every right in the world’ | OneFootball

Barcelona appear to have complicated the Nico Williams deal in recent hours once more, especially after news came out that the player demanded a written guarantee that he would be registered.

Despite the setback, however, there is optimism that the deal will go through, especially after how the Athletic Club fans have turned against the youngster and several Barcelona players have spoken openly about linking up with him.

The coming week is expected to be crucial in Barcelona’s pursuit of the winger and it remains to be seen when they pull the trigger on the release clause. After all, the transfer will now be registered in the new financial year.

Athletic Club legend weighs in

Speaking to the media recently, former Spain and Athletic Club star Julen Guerrero opened up on the Nico Williams saga and gave his two cents on the controversial transfer without particularly taking any sides.

He began by supporting the player and declaring that the talented winger had the freedom to decide his own future and that fans and the club should not react half as much as they are.

“Nico has every right in the world to decide and choose his future, whatever it is, although it could be a painful decision if, in the end, it is, which we don’t know yet.”

In the middle of a transfer saga. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

He then went on to relay how it was indeed difficult for the Athletic Club fans to accept the reality of the Williams situation and how the player was long seen as one who would go down as a club legend.

“There are many feelings at stake, in Nico of course and also in a fan that has placed many hopes in Nico Williams and in a team that has won a Cup and has entered the Champions League.”

“Seeing that someone can leave when an important project is consolidated always hurts the fans,” he added.

Guerrero then went on to give Barcelona advice as well, relaying that negotiations should have been conducted more discreetly, especially knowing how sensitive the topic was.

“The Nico issue is complicated and is already long. Above all, it seems to me that all the negotiations should be more discreet.”

Finally, the Athletic Club legend sincerely hoped that there would be no further leaks whatever the result be and that any moves took place with peace and understanding.

“I hope there are no more leaks and things like that, that everything is done more discreetly, respecting each of the parties involved,” he stated.

“Anything can happen, he doesn’t deny anything and seems to indicate that he’s leaving, but I don’t think Barça was amused to say that they are negotiating with one of their players,” he added.

Source: SPORT