FC Barcelona once again ended up empty-handed in Europe: the elimination in the Champions League semifinals was a hard blow for a team that was growing. But it is also clear that they still haven't made that leap in quality to return to the top of the continent. The feeling is clear: they compete, they excite, but something is missing.
Amid the sadness over the result, there was a name that excelled brightly once again. Lamine Yamal was one of the few who stood out at San Siro, not only for his talent but for his character. At the end of the match, he didn't hide, he faced the press and made a promise that ignited the fans: "I will keep my word and we will bring the Champions League to Barcelona".
Lamine's desire
What was not expected is that this promise came with a direct message to the club's sports management. Lamine Yamal believes Barça needs to strengthen if they want to compete at the highest level, and he is clear about who he would sign: Nico Williams. The Athletic Club winger is the player who could make the difference in key moments with his imbalance, speed, and dribbling: just what was missing against Inter.
Although his natural position is the same as Lamine's, the young academy player doesn't see it as an obstacle, quite the opposite. The young Barça star believes they could coexist in the line-up and form a formidable duo on the wings. Obviously, Nico would have to earn his place against a Raphinha who has had a remarkable season, but it is evident that there is a lack of real offensive alternatives in the team.
Firm alternative
In this context, signing Nico appears as an attractive option to change the landscape. The problem, as almost always in recent years for Barça, is economic: Nico Williams has a contract with Athletic Club and a clause around 60 million euros. The club, limited by financial 'fair play', can't embark on an operation of that magnitude without first generating income or freeing up salary mass.
Despite this, nothing is ruled out in the offices of Camp Nou. Joan Laporta has already hinted that if significant sales occur, Barça could aspire to high-level reinforcements. And although Nico is not an absolute priority right now, he is one of the names most liked by the sports management.