Nico Williams's name has been linked to Barça for some time. The winger has been one of the main priorities. On several occasions, negotiations were very advanced.
This summer, interest was reignited strongly. It seemed that both parties would finally reach an agreement. Everything pointed to the deal being imminent.
Barça thought Nico Williams would arrive this time
Hansi Flick saw him as an ideal piece to strengthen the left flank. The Barça fans dreamed of seeing him at Camp Nou. The press considered the signing almost a done deal.
However, the deal fell apart within days. Nico Williams chose to renew with Athletic. It was an outcome nobody at Can Barça expected.
Nico Williams renews with Athletic until 2035
The new contract guarantees his continuity for the next eleven seasons. His salary will start at seven million and will increase progressively. Many interpreted his choice as purely financial.
On social media, he was accused of being money-driven. Some even claimed he had used Barça as an excuse. All to improve his contract situation in Bilbao.
Cucurella responds and denies that Nico acted for money
In a conversation with Gerard Romero, Marc Cucurella offered another perspective. The Chelsea full-back was blunt with his words. He assured that Nico's decision was for another reason.
Gerard Romero believed that "the ticket to football growth" had prevailed. But Cucurella didn't agree at all. For him, Nico acted out of fear, not for money.
"I would also have doubts about being registered"
Cucurella explained that Nico was afraid he wouldn't be able to be registered in LaLiga. He confessed that he wouldn't trust promises either. "As of today, I don't trust anyone," he said without hesitation.
Romero tried to refute his argument, but he didn't convince him. The Catalan full-back insisted that insecurity was key. Especially because of Barça's financial situation.
Nico Williams didn't want to take unnecessary risks
The winger has chosen stability and continuity in Bilbao. He believes that at Athletic he has guaranteed playing time and a favorable environment. He prefers to wait until Barça is in a better situation.
For Cucurella, it's not a step back in his career. It's a logical decision given the circumstances. It leaves the door open for a future approach.
Cucurella defends Nico and points to Barça's board
With his words, Marc Cucurella pointed directly at Barça's boardroom. Not at Nico Williams. He believes that promises must be accompanied by certainties.
Meanwhile, Nico will keep growing in Bilbao. Barça will have to look for other alternatives to strengthen its attack. The market isn't over yet.