Ernesto Valverde on Nico Williams – “I am not the one to say if he is going to stay at Athletic Club” | OneFootball

There’s been so much speculation on the future of Nico Williams over the course of the summer, although it does now appear that he will be staying with Athletic Club for at least one more season.

The 22-year-old has been strongly linked with Barcelona, who are still yet to be informed about whether or not their pursuit has been successful or a failure. However, they do appear to have started considering alternatives, which does point to them giving up.

Athletic head coach Ernesto Valverde spoke on Williams ahead of Thursday’s La Liga opener against Getafe. He spoke with confidence about keeping the Euro 2024 winner at San Mames, although he could not guarantee it wholeheartedly (via MD).

“The important thing is that the players want to be with us. For that it is important that the team offers the players the possibility of growing and winning, we are not going to fool ourselves. That Nico can continue with us this year is also important for our own self-esteem.

“I see Nico well and I understand that he is going to be with us, but I am not the one to say if this player is going to stay here or not. I am going to be here… unless something happens. I can speak for myself. I understand that the players are going to be with us, but I don’t want to jump into the pool just in case. I always try to be a little cautious, sometimes it’s maybe too much, but what do you want me to do to him?”

All signs point to Williams’ continuity in Bilbao, and Athletic Club will be desperate for the summer transfer window to close with him still in Valverde’s squad. Only a few weeks to go until that becomes a reality.