Inaki Williams addresses the media regarding the controversy surrounding his brother this summer, with rumours linking him to Barcelona. Following his renewal, the captain hopes everyone can move on so that Nico can also overcome a difficult period.
For two summers running, Nico Williams has dominated the headlines. The temptation of a move to Barcelona has slightly soured his relationship with the Athletic fans. His brother has spoken openly about this. Inaki takes a pragmatic view of the matter, asking for understanding and collective support now that the Spain international has decided to extend his contract with the Bilbao club.
“On a family level, it has been a bit complicated because there has been a lot of talk about my brother and much of what has been said about him is untrue. All he has done is remain silent; everyone has the right to think about and reflect on their future. At times, people have not been fair to my brother. When someone goes to a restaurant, they are given the menu and sometimes take minutes to choose. The decision was not easy,” he began.
“Nico has been able to choose because he had many offers. Many teams have bid for him, as he is a top-class player and had a release clause that could be easily met. He was a sweet treat for the big clubs. It hasn’t been easy because all the external noise could have made him doubt, but he has made the best decision. My brother was pretty clear about it, but a long contract had to be drawn up,” Inaki added.
He admits that it hasn’t been easy for the family either: “Things happened that made it very ugly. The mural was vandalised, his car window was broken… he has decided with his heart and ambition. To leave his legacy here just like Julen Guerrero did in his day and be a reference to make his way here.”
“He has kept silent and many times I have had to stop him because I saw things that he didn’t like. We have had many video calls during this time. The Athletic fans should understand that it is not easy to make a life decision in a short time. The decision has been his and there was no pressure from me. When he steps out at San Mames, he will receive enormous affection,” he concluded.
