Zenit Saint Petersburg were reportedly more than willing to assist Barcelona in their pursuit of Nico Williams, but in a humorous twist, the Russian club is now asking for their money back.
After months of speculation, it was officially announced on Friday that Williams has committed his future to Athletic Club by signing a new eight-year contract, which includes a release clause of €90 million—significantly higher than before. ..Continue Reading
The 22-year-old winger had been heavily linked with a move to La Liga champions Barcelona, with reports in June suggesting that personal terms had already been agreed for a six-year deal.
However, Williams ultimately turned down the chance to join his close friend Lamine Yamal at Camp Nou, choosing instead to remain at Athletic Bilbao alongside his brother Iñaki.
“When it comes to making decisions, for me, the most important is to listen to your heart,” Williams said after renewing at the Estadio San Mamés. “I am where I want to be, with my people. This is my home. Aupa Athletic!”
Last month, as Barca continued to chase Williams, Zenit Saint Petersburg made the shocking decision to donate some money towards their bid. They wrote on TikTok: “For Nico Williams from Zenit.”
Shortly after a Barcelona fan account shared a screenshot of Zenit’s donation on social media, the Russian club’s admin offered some context behind the gesture. Their message read: “You gave us Malcom, so happy to help!”
Malcom, the Brazilian winger, had a brief stint at Barcelona where he scored four goals in 24 appearances before transferring to Zenit Saint Petersburg in 2019 for a reported fee of £36.5 million.
During his time in Russia, Malcom became a standout performer, making over 100 appearances and finishing as the top scorer in the Russian Premier League for the 2022/23 season, helping Zenit secure the league title.
In 2023, he was sold to Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal for approximately €60 million.
Now, two weeks after their light-hearted donation, Zenit have responded to Nico Williams’ decision to remain at Athletic Bilbao by humorously asking for their money back.
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, they responded to a post about their donation to Barcelona. It read: “Can we have our money back?”
In a statement on their official website: Bilbao wrote: “This renewal marks a milestone in the red and white history and endorses a path already started by other teammates such as Unai Simón, Oihan Sancet, Dani Vivian, Mikel Jauregizar, Beñat Prados or Ernesto Valverde himself.
“And, of course, his brother Iñaki Williams, the captain of this team that is already historic and generational.”
The club added: “The step forward that Nico Williams has taken with his renewal fills the entire Athletic family with pride, and it outlines a future that is as ambitious as it is exciting. This is the famous Athletic, the famous Athletic Club.”
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