Barcelona top target’s former manager opens up on transfer situation – ‘He is not having a good time’ | OneFootball

Barcelona and Athletic Club are currently involved in a tug of war as one side looks to get hold of Nico Williams while the other is doing its best to retain his services.

Indeed, Athletic Club are ready to do everything they can to try and stop Nico’s move to Barcelona, including asking La Liga to block the transfer.

In the midst of this tug of war, former Athletic Club coach Marcelino spoke about Nico Williams.

Marcelino on Nico Williams

Speaking to Carrusel Deportivo (h/t MARCA), Marcelino, who had given Nico his debut back in 2021, said, “I happened to be there when the boy took the step, but he would have taken it with any coach.”

Talking about the ongoing speculation linking Nico away from Athletic Club, the Spaniard acknowledged the links to Barcelona.

“Of course, I would take him to Villarreal, but I don’t think we’ll be able to. The financial means won’t be possible,” he joked.

“He’s at a big club and will want to take another step in his career, and he may think that next step is Barcelona, ​​as is being discussed,” he added.

Marcelino coached Athletic Club between 2021 to 2022. During this time, he played a key role in helping Nico make his professional breakthrough.

What’s next for Nico’s future? (Photo by Ion Alcoba Beitia/Getty Images)

And while Nico has become a star in La Liga, Marcelino admits that he is not in an ideal position and is not helped by the emerging war between Barcelona and Athletic Club.

“It’s not easy, but making it so complicated. He’s in a complicated position, and I think it could have been avoided. It could all have been simpler if you wanted to sign a player and have the money. Nico, whom I love very much, is not having a good time,” he said.

Marcelino’s statement appears to be a sly dig at Barcelona for not being able to ensure Nico’s registration once they meet the player’s release clause.

Regarding the recent comments from Joan Laporta, Marcelino didn’t have anything positive to say either.

“You can talk, but when you announce an agreement, you have to be sure of the next step you’re going to take.

“It seems to me that being more serious means getting everything done in a timely manner, with greater speed, less murmuring and fewer complaints about everything,” he concluded.