Barcelona’s return to the renovated Spotify Camp Nou has already sparked fresh debates about squad planning, transfer decisions, and the long-term direction of the club.
Hansi Flick’s side continue to push for consistency as the season approaches its midway point, with several academy graduates stepping up to ease the pressure on the senior core.
The atmosphere around the club feels increasingly intense, especially with major fixtures looming and ongoing transfer sagas continuing to dominate conversations.
Off the pitch, Barca’s hierarchy are working on several renewals and potential moves that could define the next phase of their project.
All of this has heightened scrutiny around every player linked with the club, especially those who rejected a transfer in the summer.
Only after that backdrop settled did attention return to one particular storyline that resurfaced this past week.
Barcelona’s first game back at the revamped Spotify Camp Nou, a dominant four-goal victory over Athletic Club, was overshadowed by the reaction inside the stadium as one opposition player received a wave of boos throughout the night.
The target of the jeers was Nico Williams, whose decision to reject Barcelona and renew with Athletic Club last summer left many fans frustrated, particularly after he seemed close to finalising a move.
The winger has now addressed that saga directly.
Speaking to SPORT, Nico Williams opened up about why he turned down Barcelona at the last minute, shedding light on the personal elements behind the decision.
“I have always put what I feel first, and I have been guided by my heart.
“I am very familiar with my people, and here in Bilbao I have my family with whom I consult every step I take in my life,” he explained, emphasising comfort and familiarity.
“I like to listen to my brother, he always has good advice for me, and now being able to enjoy playing the Champions League together is a dream,” he continued, highlighting the importance of staying close to his sibling.
Williams also spoke warmly about his friendship with Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal, offering praise along with a playful remark.
“He has an incredible talent, and he shows it every day, but he knows that I am his father,” he said jokingly.
The Athletic Club star went on to defend Yamal’s off-field lifestyle, which has been scrutinised heavily in recent months.
“Everyone lives their life as they want, but I think the important thing is to be professional and always give the maximum when you play.”
“Outside the field, we also need to disconnect and enjoy, like anyone. As long as there is respect and commitment, I don’t see a problem with that,” he added.
Despite the jeers at Camp Nou and the lingering disappointment over his summer decision, Williams made it clear he has no regrets, and Barcelona, now focused on their renewed project under Flick, may revisit his situation in future windows as the admiration from within the club remains strong.
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