Nico Williams has clarified that he personally rejected Arsenal and other European clubs to remain at Athletic Bilbao, distancing himself from comments made by his agent about the winger's transfer decisions.

According to a report by Football London on Tuesday, 27 October 2026, Williams responded after his representative, Felix Tainta, claimed he had helped the Spain international turn down offers from Arsenal, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich and Liverpool.

The 24-year-old insisted that the decision to remain in Spain was his own, made in agreement with his brother and family rather than dictated by his agent.

"Felix was wrong in the words he used; that's not how things happened. The final decision rests with me, my brother, and my family. What happens at home is something only we know," Williams said.

The Athletic Bilbao winger also confirmed that Arsenal were among the clubs he rejected during the summer 2024 transfer window, maintaining that he never seriously considered leaving his boyhood club.

"I have never had any doubts about being here; I've had countless offers and could have left, but I've always been clear that I wanted to stay," he added.

Williams further explained that he had personally communicated his decision to several interested clubs, including Arsenal, Barcelona and PSG.

"Nobody forced me. I had offers from Barca and other teams in Europe such as PSG or Arsenal, and I said no to all of them to be here.

"People can say whatever they want. As simple as that. I have nothing to worry about. And I hope people understand."

His comments followed Tainta's appearance on the Los Fulanos podcast, where the agent discussed the interest in his client after the 2024 European Championship.

Tainta revealed that several major European clubs had pursued Williams but suggested that concerns over playing time influenced the decision to remain at Athletic Bilbao.

He also compared the winger to a Formula 1 car, highlighting his exceptional talent and the importance of ensuring he joined a club where he would receive sufficient opportunities.

Williams has since committed his future to Athletic Bilbao by signing an eight-year contract extension last summer, keeping him at the Spanish club until 2035. The agreement also increased his release clause, previously reported at £50 million.