Raphinha sends strong message to Nico Williams after failed Barcelona transfer
Brazilian winger says Barça should only welcome players who “want to wear the shirt”
Barcelona forward Raphinha has responded publicly and firmly following Nico Williams’ decision to turn down a move to the Catalan giants and remain at Athletic Bilbao. The Brazilian international, now one of the squad’s senior voices, did not hold back when addressing the failed transfer.
“Nico Williams? If you don’t want to be here, don’t be,” Raphinha stated bluntly. “It’s better to have players who truly want to wear this shirt.”
The comments, made during a media availability session, underscore the growing sentiment inside Barça’s locker room amid an increasingly unpredictable summer transfer window.
Nico Williams Snubs Barça After Weeks of Talks
Barcelona had made Nico Williams a key priority for the current window, with club president Joan Laporta and new coach Hansi Flick both pushing for his arrival. The young winger had been in direct contact with the club for several weeks, and sources say even Lamine Yamal, a close friend of Nico, had been involved in trying to persuade him to sign.
However, in a surprise move, the Spanish international opted to renew his contract with Athletic Bilbao, catching Barcelona’s leadership off guard and effectively closing the door on a high-profile transfer.
Club Moves On With Rashford Signing
In the wake of the rejection, Barcelona swiftly pivoted, securing Marcus Rashford on a one-year loan deal from Manchester United, with an option to buy at the end of the season. The English forward had reportedly been enthusiastic about the opportunity to play at the Camp Nou something Raphinha alluded to when emphasizing the value of player commitment.
“It’s important to have quality players,” Raphinha added, “but also ones who are ready to fight for the club and respect the badge.”
Pre-Season and Transfer Outlook
Barcelona is now focused on wrapping up pre-season preparations. The team will face Daegu FC and Como FC, the latter match doubling as the Joan Gamper Trophy final, before opening the La Liga 2025/26 season against Mallorca.
As of now, president Laporta and sporting director Deco do not intend to pursue further reinforcements. Any additional changes to the squad are likely to involve outgoing transfers, as Flick prepares to begin his first official campaign with the group already in place.
