Nico Williams carries a quiet charm that he hides behind a bold modern image. After a postdinner moment on the first day of the training camp, he sits with El Periódico de España, relaxed in a room near the press area at the Ciudad de Fútbol de Las Rozas. Spain’s open-door training session has become a cherished ritual under Luis de la Fuente, and Nico has become one of the most in-demand players among the young fans who crowd the stands for selfies.
He stands beside former teammate Iñigo Martínez, who is also arranging interviews, both dressed in tracksuits that echo the team’s current gear. The moment feels nostalgic as the interview kicks off. Nico sits with his arms crossed, a telltale sign in body language that he is buffering, then eases as the conversation unfolds. His expressions soften; a playful laugh emerges, and he smiles more freely as the chat stays light. When topics turn serious, his jaw tightens just a touch, signaling focus. The interviewer notes the fluency of the dialogue, and the exchange ends with a firmer handshake than the first contact. Nico appears fully present, not merely riding a wave of attention around his brother Iñaki.
Athletic have 7 of the last 9 points. They beat Celta 4-3 in a wild match where he scored and assisted.
Treat me like you do, I’m 21 years old please.
You arrived in great shape for this session.
I feel excellent. I believe I’ve taken a quality leap this season, improving every day. The aim is to provide more assists, not just finishes, and that mindset aligns with the national team invitation, which he regards as fantastic news.
How do you handle being a focal point for your club?
The initial pressure is real, but a competitive player thrives on it. He enjoys stepping into that role and helping the team, hoping people notice his contributions beyond goals.
With Oihan Sancet, Vivian, and Guruzeta joining the group, Athletic seems well settled. What can you say about the squad?
A strong squad is forming. A player nicknamed Guru provides immense space and links with the others, which helps Iñaki and Nico alike harness chances behind the defense. Vivian takes her central role seriously, and she’s on a path to becoming one of the league’s top center-backs. Oihan is a remarkable presence on screen and in the locker room.
With your contract set to expire on June 30, you’ve become a highly sought-after figure for big clubs. Have you decided yet?
Interest from Barcelona, Real Madrid, and English clubs shows he is performing well. He remains clear about his preferred path, but he defers to his agents and family to finalize the decision while staying calm.
Will the final call be Nico’s alone or a family-involved choice?
The choice will involve everyone close to him. Family and advisers play a crucial role, making it a shared decision rather than a solo move.
Will the timing of the decision interfere with league play or European competition?
He aims to avoid drama or rumors. Clear guidelines are in place, and the process will unfold quietly as the decision becomes public in due time.
Together with Vinicius, you’ve stood out against racism on the field. Are things improving?
The league and clubs act quickly to identify offenders. Football is moving forward in its fight against racism, with players feeling more protected and supported as a result. He hopes this momentum continues.
Is racism a football problem or a broader social issue?
Every child isn’t born racist. Education shapes behavior, and the game reflects society. The goal is ongoing progress toward a more tolerant, diverse environment, both on the field and off it.
What about the team atmosphere in the national group?
From day one, it felt like family. The locker room is warm, full of jokes and genuine gestures of friendship. The coaching and staff cultivate a strong, familiar vibe, making the squad a tight-knit unit.
Does that camaraderie connect to on-field success, like the Nations League?
Yes. When teammates act as friends, they fight harder for each other. The shared spirit is a hallmark of their success, creating a very cohesive atmosphere.
Finally, is Spain a real candidate to win the European Championship, or will they play it cautious?
Spain is a solid contender. The team has quality, rhythm, and the drive to win. They’ll stay focused on each match, aiming to finish top of the group and secure a favorable seed for the knockout rounds. Optimism about lifting the trophy remains.