Barcelona captain Rafinha considers Williams a top-quality player.
Barcelona is actively pursuing Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao. Praising the enthusiastic Spanish winger, Rafinha says the club will warmly welcome any player who comes to contribute.
It’s expected that Barcelona will sign Williams soon by meeting his €62 million release clause. According to Spanish media, the 22-year-old has already agreed to personal terms on a six-year contract with the Catalan club.
At Barcelona, Williams will have to compete with Rafinha for a spot on the left wing. Coach Xavi might also include both Williams and young talent Lamine Yamal together in the lineup.
Speaking at a promotional event in his home country Brazil, Rafinha said he’s not worried about competition for places. He believes Williams is a player of great quality.
“We welcome any player who comes to contribute to the club. I think anyone who comes with a hardworking mentality and wants to work for the good of the team will be welcomed. That’s the most important thing to me and the other players.”
“It’s no coincidence that he is being considered to play with us at Barcelona. He’s a Spanish senior national team player. He is a player of the highest standard with many qualities.”
When asked about possibly changing his own position to make room for Williams, the Brazilian winger said, “Those decisions are up to the coach.”
Nico Williams, brother of Iñaki Williams at Bilbao, has played 167 matches since his first-team debut in 2021, scoring 31 goals.
He has scored 6 goals in 28 appearances for Spain and played a key role in their 2024 European Championship victory.
