🚫 Barcelona Drop Interest in Nico Williams Amid Fitness and Dressing Room Concerns
In a surprising development, Barcelona have officially ended their pursuit of Nico Williams, despite earlier links suggesting the Athletic Bilbao winger could be a key attacking addition next season.
According to El Nacional, several factors led to the club’s firm decision:
- Injury Concerns: Williams missed a notable number of games last season due to seven separate injuries, raising red flags about his durability and long-term reliability.
- Trust Issues: Last summer, the player reportedly backed out of a near-finalized deal with Barça at the last minute—a move that left a sour impression on Joan Laporta and Deco.
- Tactical Fit: New coach Hansi Flick isn’t convinced that Williams fits into his tactical vision. He prefers other options like Rafael Leão or Luis Díaz, even if they would cost significantly more.
- Dressing Room Stability: Perhaps most critically, Flick wants to preserve harmony in the squad, especially regarding Raphinha, who had a strong season and is seen as a cornerstone of the team. Introducing Williams—who reportedly expects a starting role—could spark unnecessary tension.
Raphinha himself has expressed discomfort with the idea of Williams joining, concerned about potential role conflict. Flick has now asked the club to abandon the pursuit entirely, reaffirming his trust in Raphinha as a key figure in the club’s new direction.
