In an unexpected development, Barcelona has made a bold decision concerning one of the players widely expected to strengthen their attacking options for the upcoming season.
Despite the player’s recognized talent, speed, and ability to influence matches, the club’s management and newly appointed head coach Hansi Flick have collectively ruled out any move for him, officially bringing an end to the possibility of his arrival at Camp Nou.
According to reports from Spanish outlet El Nacional, Barcelona has chosen not to pursue Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, citing a combination of concerns that ultimately made the deal unattractive. One of the primary reasons behind this decision is the player’s troubling injury history.
Williams endured seven separate injuries last season, causing him to miss numerous matches. These recurring fitness problems have significantly affected his form and raised doubts about his reliability for a long, demanding campaign at a club like Barcelona.
Another key factor is a lingering issue from the previous transfer window. Last summer, Williams reportedly turned down Barcelona’s proposal at the last moment despite a prior verbal agreement.
This unexpected rejection left a sour taste with club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, both of whom are now reluctant to revisit negotiations with the player.
From a tactical standpoint, Hansi Flick is not particularly keen on Williams either. The German manager has his sights set on other targets who better fit his system and game plan. Notably, Flick would prefer to pursue the likes of Rafael Leão or Luis Díaz, even though acquiring either player would demand a considerably larger financial commitment from the club.
Moreover, internal team harmony played a crucial role in this decision. Flick is wary of disrupting the dynamic on the right flank, a position currently occupied by Brazilian star Raphinha.
Although Raphinha’s form dipped slightly toward the season’s conclusion due to fatigue, he had an overall outstanding campaign, culminating in a Ballon d’Or nomination. This success is particularly impressive considering that his future at the club was uncertain just a year ago.
Raphinha himself is reportedly opposed to the idea of bringing in Nico Williams. Aware that Williams would not accept a substitute role and would aim for a starting position, Raphinha fears such a move could cause unnecessary competition and destabilize the dressing room.
Given these concerns, Flick personally advised Barcelona’s board to abandon the transfer, reiterating his faith in Raphinha as a key figure in the club’s ongoing project.
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