Soccer player with a red jersey in front of the FC Barcelona crest on a pink background.

Nico Williams Ditches Barça, Raphinha is to Blame: He Already Has a New Team

The Spanish winger from Athletic Club would leave Bilbao in the summer to play outside of Spain.

Last summer, Nico Williams was one of Barça's main targets to strengthen the attack. His speed, dribbling, and youth made him an ideal profile for the blaugrana team, which was looking for a game-changing winger. However, despite the interest and the player's willingness, the deal couldn't be closed due to Barça's financial restrictions.

Soccer player celebrating a goal with the Athletic Club de Bilbao shirt.
Nico Williams's Future Remains Up in the Air | @nicolas_williams9

This situation frustrated Barça's plans, as they saw Nico as a key reinforcement for the future. Despite this, the young winger decided to stay in Bilbao, aware that he would continue to have opportunities to make the leap to a big club in the future. Now, a year later, his name is back on the table at Can Barça, but the circumstances have changed.

Rafael Leão and Luis Díaz Have the Edge

Barça still needs a winger, and Nico Williams remains a name liked by the sports management, but his performance this season hasn't been brilliant. Despite being a key player at Athletic, his impact on matches has decreased, and this has led to other options appearing on the blaugrana priority list.

Football player wearing AC Milan shirt celebrating on the pitch.
Rafael Leão at Milan | @iamrafaeleao93

Both Rafael Leão and Luis Díaz seem to have the edge in the race to strengthen Barça's attack. Both are more established players in the elite and offer immediate performance. While Nico still has great potential, his slight drop in level generates some doubts in the Catalan club.

Nico May Already Have a Team

What seems more certain is that Nico Williams will indeed leave Athletic this summer. According to "El Nacional," Arsenal has already spoken with the player's entourage and would be willing to go for his signing.

Therefore, if Barça really wants Nico, they must act quickly. In a market where quality wingers are desired, time is against the blaugrana team. The final decision will depend on the club's priorities and the options available in the coming months.

Lamine Yamal Would Lose His Friend

If Barça ultimately doesn't go for Nico Williams, one of the biggest disappointments will be for Lamine Yamal. The young blaugrana talent has a great relationship with Nico and dreamed of sharing a locker room with him at Camp Nou. However, if the Bilbao winger ends up on another team, that possibility will be ruled out, at least for now.