Nico Williams’ agent says lack of playing-time guarantees ended Barcelona move

Nico Williams’ proposed move from Athletic Club to Barcelona in 2024 collapsed because of concerns over whether the winger would play regularly, according to his agent Felix Tainta.

Williams had been one of the standout players at the 2024 European Championship, helping Spain beat England in the final and win the tournament. His performances led to interest from a host of leading European clubs, with Barcelona appearing closest to securing his signature.

However, the transfer broke down at the last moment and Williams subsequently signed a new 10-year contract with Athletic Club.

Speaking about the saga on the Los Fulanos podcast, Tainta said the possibility of Williams being left out of the team was unacceptable, particularly with a World Cup approaching.

“We all know about Barca’s interest in the summer of ’24, after the European Championship,” he said.

“Barca, Arsenal, Bayern, Liverpool, PSG ... I could name them all. Everyone wanted Nico, and it’s not easy for a player to say no to all these clubs.”

Tainta said Athletic Club had been kept informed throughout the discussions, although the club was unhappy with Barcelona’s approach to the situation.

“From there, we talked to Barca. Athletic knew because I kept them informed about the situation at all times, even though Athletic and Barca... Athletic was angry with Barca for their methods,” he added.

The agent explained that negotiations eventually reached a point where guaranteed opportunities to play became central to the decision.

“From then on, I initiated conversations, and there came a point in the negotiations, in the situation, where Nico couldn't be without playing,” said Tainta.

“Nico is a Formula 1 car, and if I go to your house, I can't take on your problem, and I made that clear to Barca.”

Tainta said the uncertainty was considered too great for Williams to accept, given the demands of his career and the upcoming World Cup.

“We decided that if there weren't certain guarantees, we couldn't risk Nico not going there to play, with a World Cup coming up, and not just with a World Cup, but because he's a professional who has to perform his duties,” he said.