La Liga manager addresses future of Real Madrid target – ‘I think he’ll stay’ | OneFootball

Nico Williams has become the hot topic in Real Madrid circles lately, with the Spanish international emerging as one of the top attacking targets for the club.

Nico’s explosive traits out wide coupled with his experience in Spanish football appear to have made him a key target for Real Madrid’s coach-designate, Xabi Alonso.

Keeping that in mind, Athletic Club manager Ernesto Valverde was recently asked about Nico’s future and whether or not he will be a part of his team next season.

Valverde on Nico’s future

Speaking to the press ahead of Athletic Club’s final league game against Barcelona this season, Valverde claimed that he expects Nico to stay at the club next season.

“I think he’ll be there, we assume so. There are always rumors about many players, including Nico. Now, in the summer, it’s time to get things rolling: the Premier League, European Leagues,” Valverde said (h/t AS).

Will Nico stay at Athletic Club next season? (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

“We’re very happy with him, and he’s very happy with us, and we hope it’s a good year for him here,” he added.

Valverde’s statement comes at a time when Real Madrid have emerged as the likely destination for Nico, who is widely expected to leave Athletic Club after being close to joining Barcelona last summer.

Apart from his future, Valverde also talked about whether or not Nico will feature tomorrow against Barcelona after missing five matches due to injury.

“I know he’s on my list for tomorrow, with a chance of playing, like the others,” said the former Barcelona coach.

Real Madrid will certainly take cognisance of Valverde’s comments on Nico’s future. But it is unlikely Athletic Club will be able to do anything if Los Blancos do end up matching the player’s €58 million release clause.