Joan Laporta makes a historic decision following Nico Williams’ betrayal of Barcelona
Nico Williams’ decision to renew his contract with Athletic Bilbao has sent shockwaves through Barcelona’s ranks. But if anyone is particularly upset by this betrayal, it’s Joan Laporta.
The Barcelona president made no secret of his anger at what he considered an inappropriate move by the Spanish international, whom the club had tried to sign for two consecutive summers.
According to club sources, Laporta is furious about the escalating situation. Just a month ago, Barcelona had axed Nico for economic and strategic reasons. However, it was the player himself who offered to wear the Blaugrana shirt, through his agent and personal contacts with the squad.
This unexpected turn of events, with Neco Williams making his offer and showing his willingness to join Barcelona, has revived a process that seemed to have been forgotten.
Despite Barcelona’s Financial Fair Play difficulties, they have once again taken serious steps. Laporta, along with Deco and the coaching staff, consider Nico a key reinforcement for Hansi Flick.
It was made clear to the player that an immediate registration clause could not be guaranteed, but that all necessary procedures would be undertaken if he finally agreed to sign.
Historic decision from Laporta
But within days, Nico changed the scenario: he renewed his contract with Athletic Bilbao, leaving Barcelona in a difficult position.
For Laporta, this incident was the straw that broke the camel’s back. After all these efforts to sign him, and his initiative to return to Barcelona, the president believes the journey to sign Nico Williams is over.
“The Barcelona shirt is not a game or a whim,” Laporta was heard saying in the Camp Nou offices. It is believed the player used the club’s name to pressure Athletic Bilbao to renew his contract, and that he showed disrespect for the institution and the dressing room.
A source close to the president confirmed that he had made a firm decision: “Neco Williams will never wear the Barcelona shirt again.”
Within the club, any future path for Neco Williams is considered closed, and serious alternatives are already being considered to bolster the attacking line.
Luis Diaz and Rashford are the leading candidates for this position, which pleases Flick, with real potential in the event of a major sale.
With this episode, Joan Laporta ends a period of fruitless negotiations with Nico Williams. For the president, there’s no going back: there’s no place at Camp Nou for those who tamper with the team’s jersey.
Source: El Nacional
