Athletic Club’s first-choice goalkeeper and Spain’s number one, Unai Simón, has once again stood firmly in defense of his teammate Nico Williams amid the endless transfer saga linking the young winger with FC Barcelona. Speaking openly, Simón revealed that he was never convinced Nico would leave Bilbao, despite months of rumors, speculation, and headlines surrounding a potential move to the Catalan giants.
“I always knew Nico wasn’t going to Barcelona,” Simón stated firmly. “Since last summer, he has been so disrespected by all the noise around his name. There was no real football to discuss at certain times, so they kept bringing him up, but at no point did Nico ever say he wanted to leave.” His words paint a clear picture of frustration at the way the media and fans have handled the ongoing situation.
For months, Nico Williams was considered one of Barça’s top priorities, with reports claiming the Blaugrana were desperate to secure his signature. The young winger’s dazzling performances in La Liga and with the Spanish national team only fueled these talks. Yet, just as in previous transfer windows, Williams opted for loyalty, deciding once again to commit to Athletic Club. He recently signed a long-term deal that ties him to the Basque club for the next eight years, a statement of intent that confirms his dedication to the team that nurtured his rise.
Simón’s defense of his teammate comes at a time when criticism has been mounting from all sides. Some Barcelona supporters have expressed disappointment, while others see Nico’s decision as a blessing in disguise. The narrative around him has ranged from claims of disloyalty to doubts about his potential at a bigger stage. However, those who know him closely, like Simón, emphasize his professionalism, humility, and determination to forge his own path.
The goalkeeper’s comments also underline the growing tension between transfer gossip and the players themselves. For young stars like Nico Williams, constant rumors can create unnecessary pressure and distraction. By publicly speaking up, Simón not only defends his friend but also sends a reminder to fans and media alike: careers are personal choices, and loyalty to a club like Athletic Bilbao should be respected, not criticized.
In the end, the so-called “Nico-to-Barça” saga has become one of the defining stories of Barcelona’s recent transfer windows, but Simón’s statement makes it clear that the decision was never truly in doubt. For Athletic Club fans, Nico’s commitment is a victory for loyalty in modern football, while for Barcelona, it is yet another reminder that not every rising star can be lured away from their roots.
