Barça have found a new obstacle in their attempt to strengthen their squad this season. This obstacle comes directly from Athletic Club, which has taken an unexpected turn in the situation of one of its key players. This morning, Athletic Club surprised everyone by announcing an important move through its official Instagram account.
Athletic Club have decided to give Nico Williams the number 10 shirt for the new season. This symbolic gesture is much more than just assigning a number. It represents a commitment from the club to one of its most promising talents and, at the same time, complicates Barça's plans to get him.
10 is Nico Williams' new number
The number 10 is a very important number in any football team, and receiving it is an honour reserved for those players who are considered fundamental to the club. Nico Williams, one of the young promises of Spanish football, has been chosen to wear this iconic number at Athletic Club. The decision to give him the number 10 underlines the club's confidence in his potential and his central role in the team.
This move also sends a clear message to Barça and other clubs interested in the young striker. Athletic have no intention of letting their player go easily. With this gesture, Athletic Club makes it clear that they are counting on Nico Williams to lead their sporting project in the long term.
A disappointment for Barça and the Catalans
For Barça, who have been looking for reinforcements in attack, the assignment of the number 10 to Nico Williams is a serious setback. The Catalan club has been closely following the player's development and had in mind the possibility of incorporating him into their squad. However, Athletic Club's decision reinforces the idea that they will not be willing to negotiate his departure in this transfer window.
Barça, already facing financial difficulties, now find themselves with an additional obstacle. Athletic's intention to retain Nico Williams makes any possible negotiations difficult. The Basque club is willing to do whatever it takes to keep its young star at San Mamés.
While Nico Williams was an attractive option to strengthen the attack, the club will now have to explore other alternatives. With the arrival of Dani Olmo, Barça's attack could surprise this season. But the disappointment of the Catalans with the failed signing of Nico Williams will not be easy to overcome.