Ghana international Inaki Williams has spoken out about the failed attempt by FC Barcelona to sign his younger brother, Nico Williams, during the summer transfer window.
According to Inaki, Barcelona initiated a media-driven campaign to pressure Nico into joining the club. Despite the public buzz and speculation, Nico opted to remain loyal to Athletic Bilbao, signing a long-term contract that keeps him at the club until 2035.
“A lot of lies have been told. We all know how football works and the pressure they tried to apply,” Inaki said. “Barça ran a media campaign thinking it would succeed, but it only caused harm and created unnecessary noise.”
Now captain of Athletic Bilbao following the retirement of Oscar De Marcos, Inaki has defended his brother’s decision and criticized the tactics used by Barcelona in pursuit of the winger.
The Williams brothers are set to play key roles for Athletic Bilbao in the 2025/26 season, with the club returning to European football after years of absence. They begin their La Liga campaign with a home match against Sevilla.
