"Disrespecting Nico is Disrespecting Athletic Itself"

On Sunday, Athletic issued an official statement condemning the vandalism of the Williams brothers' mural located in the Lutxana neighbourhood of Barakaldo. This morning, the painting appeared without Nico's face and with the phrase "leave or stay, you've lost respect," referring to his potential move to Barça. From Ibaigane, the club condemns the acts and issues a warning: "Disrespecting Nico is disrespecting Athletic itself."

The full statement is as follows:

The dignity of a club is the dignity of the people who comprise it, measured by their ability to act consistently with their values, without succumbing to provocations or lowering themselves, always holding their heads high. Respect is one of the fundamental pillars of Athletic Club.

The summer has just begun, and publications about Nico Williams, a player under contract with Athletic Club until 2027, are abundant in the media and social networks. Alongside them, a myriad of comments and reactions of all kinds. Nico is one of us. A player raised in Lezama, cherished in the locker room, and supported by his fans.

The dignity of a club is also reflected in how it protects its own. Therefore, those who erased Nico's image from the mural by artist Carlos López in Barakaldo do not represent Athletic. And if they believe they are part of this family, they must know they are mistaken: disrespecting one of ours is disrespecting Athletic itself.

The Club understands that the current situation may cause some concern among Athletic fans, especially when fuelled by rumours, arrogance, or disdain towards our identity. But being part of Athletic also means knowing how to maintain composure. Defending Athletic is about acting with respect, not succumbing to provocations or losing decorum.

The Club will defend its interests with determination and firmness wherever necessary, always faithful to its principles. But Athletic is much more than a sum of individuals. It is a family, a squad, a community united by a special way of understanding football.

And it is also a winning project. With a generation of committed players and fans, with an exemplary fanbase, and with an identity that cannot be bought or sold. Athletic has both a present and a future. Because this Club will always move forward, with heads held high, with respect and pride. With those who are here and those who will come.

Athletic Club has already contacted the mural artist and offered assistance to restore his work.