Rivaldo Explains Why Barcelona’s Signing of Nico Williams Won’t Be Enough to Challenge Real Madrid

Rivaldo Explains Why Barcelona’s Signing of Nico Williams Won’t Be Enough to Challenge Real Madrid

  • La Liga powerhouse, Barcelona are reportedly in hot pursuit of Spain’s UEFA Euro 2024 star Nico Williams
  • The signing of the forward has continued to gain momentum, especially after Real Madrid signed Kylian Mbappe
  • Brazil's Rivaldo Ferreira, has explained why the signing of the Athletic Club star will not be enough to challenge Real Madrid

Discussions about Barcelona potentially signing Nico Williams are increasingly gaining attention.

The 22-year-old, who shone during UEFA Euro 2024 with Spain, has been strongly linked to the Catalan club, particularly due to his promising connection with youngster, Lamine Yamal.

The momentum around a potential transfer for the Athletic Club forward has also been bolstered by Real Madrid's acquisition of Kylian Mbappe.

Nico Williams celebrate for Spain.
Nico Williams of Spain celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA EURO 2024 final match between Spain and England at the Olympiastadion on July 14, 2024. Image: Ian MacNicol.
Source: Getty Images

However, despite the growing fan demand for Williams, former Brazil forward, Rivaldo Ferreira, has shared his perspective on why acquiring the Athletic star might not be sufficient for Barcelona to compete with Real Madrid.

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Rivaldo speaks on the signing of Nico Willams

In an interview captured by Barca Universal, the 52-year-old who played for Barcelona between 1997 and 2002, touched on the potential transfer of the young Spanish forward.

The Brazilian football icon acknowledged that while signing Williams would be a significant boost for the club, Barcelona may still need additional players to match their arch-rivals, Real Madrid.

“Of course, it’s impossible to predict the future, but Barça must demonstrate through their performance that they can compete with Real Madrid. On paper, adding Nico would strengthen the team, but they need to prove it on the field, especially in the Clásicos,” he said.
“Although I have a great affection for Barça, I must be honest: Real Madrid is currently ahead. Signing Nico Williams would be a positive step, but I believe one or two more acquisitions are necessary to regain the team’s former glory.”

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Nico Williams: Why Barcelona is the best place for Euro 2024 star amid transfer buzz, "they have heritage"

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According to a recent report from Football Espana, sporting director, Deco, met with Williams’ agent earlier this week to discuss the contract proposal for the 22-year-old winger.

Given Barcelona's financial constraints, activating the release clause for Williams seems to be their best option to secure the young talent.

Nico Williams speaks Twi on holidays

In another report, YEN.com.gh disclosed that Nico Williams still holds on to his Ghanaian heritage despite choosing to play for his country of birth over the nation of his parents.

The 21-year-old winger was spotted speaking the popular Ghanaian language, Twi, as he visited a shop. In the video, Nico admitted he speaks a bit of Twi.

Nico, the younger brother of Ghana international Inaki Williams, helped Spain win the European Championship after starring in the victory over England on Sunday, July 14, 2024.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Authors:
Richard Nutakor avatar

Richard Nutakor (Sports Editor) Richard Kekeli is a digital media enthusiast with over 8 years of working experience in media and digital. He's worked with notable media brands in Ghana like Media General, owners of TV3 Ghana, 3FM, Onua FM & Connect FM. He's also worked with Global Media Alliance as a Digital Account Manager. He obtained a Bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of Ghana in 2016 and a Masters in Brands and Communication Management from the University of Professional Studies, Accra. Email: richard.kekeli@sportsbrief.com