Athletic Club President upset with questions about Nico Williams future

Athletic Club Bilbao president Jon Uriarte voiced strong criticism on Thursday towards the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), condemning the continuous questioning faced by winger Nico Williams about his future.

Williams, who turns 22 on Friday, has been a standout performer in the ongoing European Championships, drawing attention from several clubs.

Despite signing a contract extension with Athletic until 2027 last year, FC Barcelona has been prominently linked with the player.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta recently stated that the club could still pursue Williams, despite their significant financial challenges.

Throughout the Euros, Williams has faced relentless inquiries regarding his potential transfer, a situation that has displeased Uriarte.

"Nico, a footballer who is very committed to Athletic Club, has been subjected to an excessive and uncontrolled bombardment of questions about his future, while he is at the Euros with the Spanish Football Federation, who have not known how to protect him," said Uriarte.

Uriarte was speaking as the club officially presented new signings Alvaro Djalo and Andoni Gorosabal at their Lezama training ground and highlighted that last season's Copa del Rey winners had "the economic, social and sporting capacity to maintain players of William's stature."