Mansion Sports – The long-running transfer saga involving Nico Williams has once again taken center stage after his older brother, Iñaki Williams, publicly accused FC Barcelona of spreading misinformation to the media regarding their previous negotiations. 

This accusation has further stirred controversy following Nico’s ultimate decision to remain at Athletic Bilbao.

Unfulfilled Verbal Agreements Cast Doubt on Barcelona’s Intentions

Following Nico Williams’ impressive performances at Euro 2024, reports emerged that Barcelona had engaged in serious dialogue with the player’s representatives and had even reached a verbal agreement on personal terms. 

Despite growing media speculation, however, no concrete steps were taken by the Catalan club to finalize the transfer.

There were also claims suggesting that Nico postponed his decision to move due to concerns over registration guarantees with the first team, particularly after witnessing the complications faced by Dani Olmo in the previous season. Ultimately, Nico chose to extend his stay at Athletic Bilbao, signing a long-term contract through to 2035.

Barcelona Turns to Rashford and Points Finger at Nico’s Agent

After the failed pursuit of Nico Williams, Barcelona redirected their focus to Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, whom they successfully acquired on a loan deal. 

Club President Joan Laporta stated that Rashford had always been their top priority, downplaying the club’s interest in Williams by claiming he was a lower-tier target.

Laporta further asserted that Nico’s agents were the ones who initially approached Barcelona and blamed the collapse of the transfer on irreconcilable differences involving payment structures, agent fees, and other contract variables.This narrative appeared to be a strategic move to deflect criticism over the failed negotiations.

Iñaki Williams: “Much of What They Say is a Lie”

In a pre-season interview with Athletic Bilbao, Iñaki Williams challenged Barcelona’s version of events, claiming that much of the information circulated during the negotiation process was inaccurate. He criticized the club for damaging its reputation and creating unnecessary pressure.

“We all know how the football world works,” said Iñaki. “Barcelona tried to manipulate Athletic supporters and my brother through a media campaign they thought would succeed.”

He continued, “This caused significant harm. Many of the things they said—whether leaked to the press or posted on social media—were outright lies.”

“Honestly, my brother had already decided to stay, but there was still a massive contract to draft and agree upon, one that ties him until 2035. That couldn’t be announced on a whim.”

Athletic Bilbao’s Quiet and Respectful Transfer Approach

Iñaki Williams also took a subtle jab at Barcelona’s media-heavy approach to transfers, contrasting it with the discretion typically employed by Athletic Bilbao.

“When Athletic wants a player, they do it quietly,” he stated. “We don’t need to make headlines in the press.”

His comments have shed new light on what had been perceived as a straightforward failed transfer. 

They have reignited scrutiny over how Barcelona handles communication with the public regarding player acquisitions.

Although Nico Williams’ long-term future now appears secure following his contract extension with Athletic Bilbao, the fallout from this episode continues to reverberate. 

The transfer drama has left a lingering impact on all parties involved, highlighting deeper issues surrounding transparency, negotiation tactics, and media influence in modern football.