By T. Jayani, JadeTimes News
Marca, Spain's leading sports newspaper, captured the promising futures of Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal in their headline before the country's Group B victory against the reigning European champions. With a combined age of just 37 Williams turning 22 on July 12 this year and Yamal 17 the day after the two wingers symbolize the bright future of Spanish football.
Ahead of Sunday’s last 16 match against Georgia at 20:00 BST, they are seen as a duo capable of leading Spain to a level of success not seen since their Euro wins in 2008 and 2012. The pair have forged a strong friendship, with Williams mentoring the younger Yamal, inspired by how his older brother Inaki took care of him in their youth.
The Williams brothers, now teammates at Athletic Club, are also leaders in the fight against discrimination in Spain, where racism remains an issue. Nico recently spoke out against a racist social media reaction to Marca's headline, with the Spanish Federation offering immediate support.
The Williams brothers understand the significant platform football provides. They are committed to condemning racism and are aware of the responsibility their words carry. Their journey to Spain is a story of human trafficking, hope, emigration, and the kindness of strangers.
As a child, Inaki Williams didn’t understand why his father Felix had foot problems. When he was 18 and playing for Athletic Club’s first team, his mother Maria explained that Felix's feet were damaged by the Sahara desert sands during their journey from Ghana in search of a better life.
They were stranded halfway to the UK by a gang that took their savings and were arrested in the Spanish enclave of Melilla. A lawyer advised them to claim they were from war torn Liberia to gain asylum, leading them to Catholic priest Inaki Mardones, who found them housing in Bilbao and took them to the hospital where Inaki was born. Named after the priest, Inaki received his first Athletic jersey from him.
Nico later reflected on their journey, expressing gratitude for his parent's sacrifices. He stated that everything he and his brother do is for their parents, who risked their lives for a better future. Life remained challenging for the Williams family despite their newfound security. Felix moved to London to work, sending money home while Inaki took on a fatherly role for Nico. Their mother worked multiple jobs to support the family.
Nico, born on July 12, 2002, in Pamplona, grew up under Inaki’s guidance. He recalls his brother picking him up from school, making sandwiches, and teaching him the discipline needed to succeed as an elite athlete.
On April 28, 2021, the brothers made history by becoming the first siblings to play together for Athletic Club since 1986. After the match, they visited their mother, unable to watch the game due to Covid 19 restrictions.
Nico has formed a strong bond with 16 year old Lamine Yamal in the national team, acting as a mentor much like Inaki did for him. They are often seen together, preparing goal celebrations and enjoying their time on the team. Spain’s national team manager, Luis de la Fuente, values this relationship, having tasked Nico with looking after Yamal during their time in Madrid before friendly games against Colombia and Brazil. Nico’s mentorship has proven invaluable, guiding Yamal and setting a positive example.
Nico, an explosive right footed winger, has shown his potential on both wings and in central positions. Despite a disappointing performance in Spain’s Euro 2024 opener against Croatia, he rebounded with a standout display against Italy. With six successful dribbles in the Euros so far, only Yamal surpasses him with seven.
Nico has already made 16 appearances for Spain and appears destined for a move to one of the world’s biggest clubs. In December, he extended his contract with Athletic Club until June 30, 2027, with a release clause of around £49m, deterring interest from Chelsea and Barcelona.
Despite the speculation, Nico remains committed to Athletic Club, while club president Jon Uriarte expressed confidence in retaining him. For now, Nico is focused on his unfinished business with Spain, wearing the national shirt with pride and distinction.
