Athletic Club fans urged to be ‘understanding’ about Nico Williams’ move to Barcelona | OneFootball

Former Valencia and Spain goalkeeper Santi Canizares has weighed in on the possible transfer of Nico Williams to FC Barcelona.

The 22-year-old Spanish international is expected to join the La Liga champions this summer, having already agreed personal terms with the club.

Barça are expected to activate his €62 million release clause (including CPI) next week following which the move will be finalised.

Athletic Club fans asked to be more understanding

Athletic Club fans have grown angry and disgruntled with Nico over his decision to leave for Barcelona, as was seen when his image from a mural was erased.

However, speaking on Radio MARCA, Canizares defended the winger’s decision and urged Athletic Club fans to view the situation with perspective.

“It is not a drama, it’s part of how football works,” said the former goalkeeper.

“I understand those who are angry because they have Athletic’s heart very deep in their hearts, but those people must also be understanding,” he further stated.

On his way to Barcelona. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

For Canizares, the move isn’t driven by greed, as he said: “The player wants to play for teams at a higher level, and we have to understand that. Barça have a higher level than Athletic, that’s a reality.

“It’s not the money that moves him, because at Athletic he also has it guaranteed. What he is looking for is to fight for titles and to be higher up.”

Canizares also criticised clubs that complain when release clauses are triggered, saying: “If you have put a clause it is because you have agreed to that sale. Then you can’t cause drama when someone else pays it.”

Concluding, the ex-Spain goalkeeper remarked: “This is not a theft of players, this is the market. The big teams eat up the small ones, and that’s the way football has always worked.”