After a summer framed by glory at Euro 2024, and then dogged by transfer speculation, Nico Williams has returned to training with Athletic Club ahead of schedule.
The 22-year-old has been the focus of intense speculation after Barcelona made him their top transfer target, and Paris Saint-Germain also took an interest in paying his €58m release clause.
However amid multiple reports that he was edging towards staying at Athletic Club, Williams has returned to work at Lezama a week ahead of schedule.
He recorded a video with the Athletic social team, where he certainly seemed to declare that he would be going nowhere.
“How’s it going Athleticzales? I am back and looking forward to the season. Vamos Athletic!” he told the camera with a smile.
Williams will return as a hero to San Mames, where he will have the chance to enjoy his first European campaign in the Europa League alongside brother Inaki Williams. After finishing fifth last season under Ernesto Valverde, Los Leones will no doubt be optimistic about their chances in La Liga, and even of making the Europa League final in San Mames next summer.