Nico Williams

Winger · Athletic Bilbao · Spain

Athletic Bilbao Spain La Liga Euro 2024 Winner

Nico Williams is the most exciting young winger in world football — a blistering, direct attacker who burst onto the global stage at UEFA Euro 2024 and helped Spain lift the trophy in Berlin. At just 21, the Athletic Bilbao flyer has already announced himself as one of Europe's elite.

Born in Pamplona to Ghanaian parents who had previously raised his brother Iñaki Williams (also a Spain international and Athletic Bilbao stalwart), Nico has carved his own identity with his devastating pace, trickery, and composure in front of goal. His low centre of gravity makes him almost impossible to stop in one-on-one situations.

The summer of 2024 saw Nico linked extensively with Barcelona, who were desperate to sign him. Ultimately he chose to stay loyal to Athletic Bilbao — a decision that delighted the San Mamés faithful. His brother Iñaki remains his teammate and closest ally on the pitch, creating one of football's most compelling brotherly duos.

As Spain head towards the 2026 World Cup on home soil (co-hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico), Nico Williams is expected to be a central figure. Alongside Lamine Yamal, he forms the most terrifying young wing partnership in international football.

Born: 12 Jul 2002, Pamplona

Club: Athletic Bilbao

Position: Left Winger

Nationality: Spanish

Shirt: #10

Height: 5'9" (176 cm)

Brother: Iñaki Williams

Nico Williams Highlights

Analysis & Features

Career Overview

Club Career

  • Academy: Athletic Bilbao
  • Senior debut: 2022
  • 2023-24: Breakthrough season
  • Copa del Rey finalist
  • Stayed loyal over Barcelona bid (2024)

International Career

  • Spain senior debut: 2023
  • UEFA Euro 2024 Winner
  • 2 goals + 3 assists at Euro 2024
  • Nations League participant
  • World Cup 2026 favourite

Playing Style

  • Explosive acceleration
  • Direct 1v1 dribbling
  • Low centre of gravity
  • Cutting inside to shoot
  • Dangerous in tight spaces

The Barcelona Saga — Summer 2024

Barcelona made Nico Williams their primary transfer target in the summer of 2024 following his stunning performances at Euro 2024. The Catalan club were desperate to pair him with fellow Spaniard Lamine Yamal. Negotiations progressed, personal terms were reportedly agreed, and the football world expected the move to happen. Yet Nico ultimately chose to remain at Athletic Bilbao — honouring the club that raised him and staying alongside his brother Iñaki. The decision was celebrated wildly in Bilbao and cemented his status as a genuine Athletic icon despite being just 22 years old. Transfer speculation has never fully disappeared.

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