‘I’m his father’ – Nico Williams on his relationship with Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal ahead of Athletic Club clash

Athletic Club’s Nico Williams has been speaking about his bond with Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal before the two clubs face off in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final on Wednesday.

Barcelona's Lamine Yamal and Athletic Club's Nico Williams / IMAGO / Pressinphoto
Barcelona's Lamine Yamal and Athletic Club's Nico Williams / IMAGO / Pressinphoto

One of the best relationships in football is the bond between the Spanish duo Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. 

The pair were on fire for the Spanish national team in the 2024 Euros and their incredible form on both flanks helped La Roja beat England in the final to lift the converted trophy. 

However, on Wednesday, the duet travels to Saudi Arabia with their respective clubs to face off against each other in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final. 

In an interview with Universo Valdano, via SPORT, before the semi-final tie, the 22-year-old Athletic Club winger was asked about his time with Yamal at the 2024 Euros. 

“We had an incredible, wonderful group. Luis de la Fuente has found the key. A more direct game that has benefited me and Lamine Yamal.

“We are two wingers who like to face the ball a lot, inside players who get forward a lot. The team we had was the best, maybe not in terms of names, but as a team.”

Williams also spoke about his close relationship with the 17-year-old Barcelona winger, describing him as more than a partner.

“Lamine and I felt quite comfortable. I felt like I was in a hiking camp with them, we were enjoying ourselves a lot, and it showed on the field.

“He’s not just a partner, he’s a friend. I’m his father (laughs), he knows it perfectly.”

Barça will be hoping that one day they can have both Spanish wingers playing for the Blaugrana.

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