For weeks, the possible arrival of Nico Williams at FC Barcelona filled front pages, headlines, and debates. It was an ambitious, impactful operation, backed by Joan Laporta and coach Hansi Flick.
Nico was considered an attacking piece with immediate potential, someone capable of making a difference from day one.
But not everyone at Barça was enthusiastic. In the locker room, especially among some key players, the signing of the Athletic winger caused unease.
It wasn't just about sports, but also about the ecosystem that threatened to take hold in the Barça locker room. A "clan" with close friends, tacit privileges, and pressure that could destabilize the internal hierarchy.
It wasn't an unfounded impression. Lamine Yamal, Balde, Pedri, and Gavi himself were strong supporters of his arrival. Others, like Fermín López and Dani Olmo, viewed the operation with a mix of resignation and unease.
Collateral damage avoided
The Nico Williams operation was going to bring immediate consequences. The first victim, without a doubt, would've been Fermín. The Andalusian midfielder, last season's revelation and a major prospect from the youth academy, was halfway out if Nico landed in Barcelona.
There wasn't room for everyone, and his profile didn't fit with the new model of fast, vertical wingers. His departure, either on loan or as a transfer, was more than a real scenario.
The second consequence directly affected Dani Olmo. The former Leipzig player knew that Nico was coming to be a starter.
If the signing was confirmed, his role would be relegated to the bench. Because Raphinha would move to the center as an attacking midfielder.
A tough blow for a player who also aspires to establish himself as an undisputed starter for the national team.
Nico's reversal—which has chosen to renew with Athletic for ten years—has been privately celebrated by both. Neither Fermín nor Olmo have said so publicly, but those around the locker room know that the scenario now favors them.
A divided locker room
Not everyone was applauding Nico. Beyond the sporting aspect, there was fear of the creation of a "friends' club" with Lamine Yamal, Balde, and company within the squad. Deco, in fact, never saw his arrival clearly for this reason.
His circle raised doubts, and his contract terms even more so. He demanded a release clause if he wasn't registered, something that neither Olmo nor Joan García, the last two signings, ever requested.
Barça has avoided a risky operation. Although some, like Lamine or Balde, are left disappointed, others can now breathe easier.