Nico Williams

Key strength: Vision and passing

Wide creator

With Athletic Bilbao precariously positioned in 16th and navigating a turbulent LWLLW run, the heartbeat of their survival campaign pulses through Nico Williams. At 23, the Spain international has transcended his 'speedster' label, transforming into a sophisticated wide creator worthy of the legendary #10 shirt. Williams has carved out 4 goals and 6 assists across 26 appearances this season—a decisive contribution every 173 minutes. His maturity shines through in remarkable discipline: just one yellow card in 1,730 minutes of relentless attacking industry. The telepathic understanding with Oihan Sancet has become Athletic's primary weapon, the pair unpicking defenses with surgical precision. A €50 million valuation now feels like a conservative estimate. Whispers from Madrid and Manchester intensify with each defense-splitting pass, each electrifying run down the left flank. For now, San Mamés holds its breath, savoring their Basque jewel—knowing that elite European football's irresistible pull may eventually sever these lifelong ties.