Bilbao angry over Barça's flirtation with Euro standout Williams

Bilbao forward Nico Williams is one of the standout players at the Euros. The 21-year-old Spaniard has caught the attention of major European clubs, including Chelsea, Arsenal, and Barcelona. Barcelona's president, Joan Laporta, has stated that the club is in the right financial position to buy Williams, further fueling the transfer speculation.

Athletic Bilbao president Jon Uriarte expressed his frustration over the situation at a press conference on Friday. Uriarte highlighted the negative impact of the ongoing rumors on Williams, stating, "In recent weeks, Nico has been bombarded with excessive and uncontrolled questions about his future, even though he is with the Spanish team to participate in the Euros. We believe that the federation has not adequately protected Nico."

Uriarte's comments reflect Bilbao's concern for their young talent's well-being and focus during a critical international tournament. The pressure from the media and constant questioning about his potential transfer have created an environment of distraction for Williams, detracting from his performance and concentration on the field.

Uriarte also took the opportunity to indirectly criticize Barcelona and its president, Joan Laporta. "Respect among all parties in football is fundamental. At least, that’s how we see it at Athletic. It is not our approach to bring in players under contract with other clubs by exerting public pressure on them," Uriarte said. This statement underscores Bilbao's philosophy of maintaining integrity and respect in their dealings with players and other clubs, contrasting with the more aggressive tactics that can be seen in the transfer market.

The controversy surrounding Williams' future comes at a time when he is showcasing his skills on a significant stage, elevating his profile and attracting interest from top clubs. His performance at the Euros has demonstrated his potential and value, making him a coveted asset in the transfer market. However, Bilbao remains committed to shielding their player from undue pressure and ensuring he can focus on his development and contributions to both club and country.

As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold. Bilbao's stance and Uriarte's strong words indicate that they will not easily part with their talented forward. The club's commitment to player welfare and ethical conduct in football transactions stands in stark contrast to the often cutthroat nature of transfer dealings, setting a standard they hope others will follow.