Athletic Bilbao have handed Nico Williams the No.10 jersey amidst strong rumours connecting him with a move to Barcelona during the ongoing summer transfer window on August 12, Monday. The No.10 jersey at the club was used by Iker Muniain, who since moved on after the end of the last season. Williams has been a target for Barca since his performances in the Euro 2024.
Athletic club have now decided to hand the No.10 number to the winger, who has been with the club since his childhood. This seems to be an indicator that Spanish winger isn’t up for sale and has certainly dashed Barcelona’s hopes of getting the youngster.
“Athletic Club players have already chosen the numbers they will wear on their shirts this season.”
“In the week of the first official match of the 2024/25 season, the members of Athletic Club’s first men’s team have already decided which numbers they will wear on their shirts.”
“Among the new additions, Nico Williams has taken the number 10 shirt that until last season was worn by captain Iker Muniain,” read the statement.
Barcelona’s interest in Nico Williams
In July this year, Barcelona president Joan Laporta had said that the club can make a signing like Nico Williams. Laporta also said that he likes the winger a lot.
“Economically speaking, we could commit to the signing of Nico Williams,” Laporta told Catalunya Radio.
“Nico’s a player I like — I like him a lot. We are working with [new coach Hansi] Flick on possible signings. Now we have to leave [sporting director] Deco to close the operations we are working on.
“Shortly we will be able to announce some good news with regard to the financial [issues] and we will be back within LaLiga’s Fair Play limits. And that will allow further good news in terms of [signings].”
Williams was a star during Spain’s victorious Euro 2024 campaign and scored a goal in the final against England.