Bilbao coach: I hope Nico will stay in the team next season

Turning Net, May 25th, Athletic Bilbao coach Valverde made a clear statement on the future of the team's new star Nico Williams: "We look forward to him continuing to wear a red and white jersey next season to compete in the Champions League." This speech is not only a subtle response to Real Madrid, Bayern and other giants, but also shows the Basque Lions' firm determination to retain the core.

This season, Nico Williams has become one of the hottest wingers in La Liga with all-around data with 11 goals and 7 assists in 44 games. Its 58 million euro termination fee clause has long aroused the coveting of European giants, but Valverde emphasized: "Excellent players will always be accompanied by transfer rumors, which is part of football. But we and Nico are satisfied with each other - he plays as the main player here and is becoming the leader; and we need such talented players, especially at the critical node of returning to the Champions League after many years."

When talking about the prospects of the Champions League, Valverde could not hide his expectations: "Nico's speed, breakthrough and finishing ability will be extremely threatening in the European arena. He is only 21 years old and can fully achieve a career leap here." In fact, Bilbao's "youth training + localization" team building strategy is highly consistent with Nico's growth trajectory - he was born in Lamacia's youth training and found a more suitable tactical space in Bilbao, and the coach tailored it for him The "left winger draws inward" tactic has doubled his goal assist data.

For potential transfer games, Bilbao's confidence comes from two aspects: one is Nico's own sense of identity with the team, and his agent previously revealed that "players enjoy life in Basque"; the other is the club's Champions League qualification - next season's European competition will not only enhance its attractiveness, but also enhance its salary competitiveness through event bonuses. Although Real Madrid, Bayern and other teams may trigger the termination fee, Bilbao still hopes to impress the future star with "emotional bond + competitive blueprint".

"Nico is not a commodity, he is our family." Valverde's conclusion expresses Bilbao's philosophy of team building. In an era when gold and dollar football was prevalent, the Basque lion built a defense line with warmth and planning, trying to retain its "Messi-style new star". When Nico Williams sang a team song at St. Mames Stadium, the red and white shirts may have become an irreplaceable belonging in his heart. With the call of the Champions League stage, this choice about "loyalty and dream" may become the warmest chapter in the transfer market this summer.