Ghanaian forward Inaki Williams has spoken out in defense of his younger brother, Nico Williams, after Nico’s image was defaced on a mural in Barakaldo, Spain.
The mural originally featured Nico, Inaki, and Athletic Club captain Iker Muniain, celebrating the team’s 2023–24 Copa del Rey triumph. However, growing speculation about Nico’s potential move to FC Barcelona has stirred tension among some Athletic Bilbao fans. In response, vandals targeted the mural—removing Nico’s face and replacing it with the words: “Leave or stay, you’ve disrespected us.”
Images of the vandalized artwork quickly spread online, prompting Inaki to condemn the act on social media.
“Behind an anonymous lack of respect, there is always someone too small to show their face,” he wrote.
Athletic Club also released a strong statement defending Nico and denouncing the vandalism.
“A club’s ability to defend its members is another sign of its dignity. For that reason, Athletic Club is not represented by those who removed Nico’s image from the Carlos Lopez mural. And they are mistaken if they believe they belong to this family—disrespecting one of our own is disrespecting Athletic Club.”
Nico, 22, has become one of the club’s standout performers. In the 2023–24 season, he scored 11 goals and provided 7 assists in 41 appearances, helping Athletic qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
His impressive form has attracted interest from top European clubs including Bayern Munich and Arsenal. However, reports suggest Nico prefers to remain in La Liga, with Barcelona currently seen as his likely next destination.
