Rodri: ‘I would take Nico Williams to Man City without a doubt’

Rodri has admitted he would ‘take’ Nico Williams to Manchester City ‘without a doubt’, with speculation surrounding the Athletic Bilbao winger still raging.

Williams was one of the most in-demand players of the summer after an impressive performance at Euro 2024 with Spain but the winger opted to remain in Bilbao for another year.

The 22-year-old has a release clause of €60 million in his contract, which Barcelona and Arsenal were keen on activating, but there is a belief Williams could sign a new deal which increases the value of his buyout.

However, even if Williams were to extend his contract with Athletic Club, the Basque side could still lose their talismanic star next summer, with interest likely to return.

One of the clubs who could target Williams include City, with Rodri fuelling the fire surrounding their interest after he spoke highly of his international teammate at the award ceremony of Spanish outlet AS.

When asked if he would ‘take Williams to City tomorrow’, Rodri replied: “Yes, yes. Right now if I was taking him I would also be taking him to teach him a little bit about the cold in England, although it’s similar to Bilbao.

“But yes, I would take him with me without a doubt.”

Williams: My heart is with Athletic

Williams grabbed five goals and 11 assists in La Liga last season, cementing his status as one of the league’s standout players and further enhancing his reputation at the Euros.

The forward has continued to be a star man for Athletic as they push for Champions League qualification but reports have previously claimed that this will be Williams’ last season at the club.

However, Williams has remained committed to his boyhood club, particularly as he can play alongside his older brother Inaki, and the younger sibling insisted he ‘wants to be here’ when asked about his future.

“It’s always flattering to know that big teams have you on their agenda,” Williams said in September. “But I’ve always been clear that I wanted to be here.

“Athletic is a different feeling that you don’t get at other clubs. I’m really looking forward to doing things well at this club.

“There were approaches from many clubs. My heart is with Athletic. I have a contract here, but who knows what will happen in the future.

“I wanted to stay here because playing in Europe with Athletic was what I was most excited about.”