Nico Williams has challenged his agent’s account of the failed move to Barcelona, making it clear that his decision to stay at Athletic Club was driven by his own wishes rather than the circumstances surrounding the proposed transfer.

According to a report by Barca Universal on Sunday, October 25, 2026, the 23-year-old winger has disputed Félix Tainta’s recent claims that Barcelona’s financial difficulties and concerns over registering players were key reasons the deal fell through in the summer of 2024.

The Athletic Club forward insisted that his agent’s explanation was inaccurate and did not reflect his own understanding of the situation, publicly distancing himself from the comments.

“Félix has made a mistake with the words he said, things are not like that,” Williams said, according to Diario SPORT.

The Spanish international explained that he was ultimately responsible for deciding where he wanted to continue his career. Although his brother and other family members participated in the discussions, Williams maintained that staying in Bilbao was his preferred option and not a fallback plan forced upon him by external circumstances.

He further disclosed that several top European clubs were interested in signing him, meaning Barcelona were not his only potential destination. Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain were reportedly among the clubs that made approaches, but Williams chose to remain with Athletic Club.

“My intention is to be here, it cannot be doubted,” he stated.

The winger has also demonstrated his loyalty to the Basque outfit by signing a contract extension that will keep him at the club until June 2035.

In addition to addressing the failed Barcelona transfer, Williams discussed the criticism directed at him on social media. He suggested that online comments should not be taken as an accurate reflection of everyday life and highlighted his ambition to inspire younger fans by setting a good example.

His latest remarks have shed new light on Barcelona’s unsuccessful pursuit of the winger, while firmly establishing that his decision to remain at Athletic Club was a personal one.