“Liverpool and Barcelona came with a good offer… but I chose Man United because of this particular Man United player. I don’t want anything that will jeopardize our friendship, and I hope I won’t regret my decision later.”
That’s how Nico Williams put it—the Athletic Bilbao star confirming that Manchester United came calling, with rivals like Liverpool and Barcelona also interested. But for him, it came down to one special Red Devil: Marcus Rashford.
A choice fueled by friendship
Rumors swirled all summer: Liverpool were ready to swoop in, Barcelona prepared their latest pitch, and even domestic packages poured onto the table. Yet Nico wasn’t swayed by the size of the cheque or the glory of Camp Nou. Instead, he gave credit where credit was due:
> “Marcus Rashford was the one who called first,” Nico explained. “He said, ‘Bro, come to Old Trafford, let’s build together.’ That personal connection meant everything. I didn’t want to go anywhere that would mess with us.”
It wasn’t just a bold claim—this is a player in his early 20s, making rapid progress at Bilbao and Spain (he scored in the Euro 2024 final!). Nico described how Rashford reached out, sharing insights about life at United—on and off the pitch—and setting the tone for a true brotherhood.
What makes Rashford stand out?
Rashford’s reputation has never been just about goals—his off-field presence is equally powerful. He’s become a voice for social change and mental wellness, someone who’s earned respect in the locker room and the city alike. For Nico, that kind of leadership was a magnet.
Plus, there’s football chemistry to consider. At Spain’s Euro campaign, Nico and Rashford often clicked on the wing—Rashford buzzing around in coverage and Nico darting into open space. The synergy surprised plenty, and at United these dynamics could flourish:
Pace and directness – Nico’s electric dribbling and speed mirror Rashford’s game. Together, they could form an explosive wing partnership.
Mutual growth – Nico knows he’ll learn from a peer, not just a senior; a friend who’s been through similar trials at Old Trafford and come through stronger.
Risks—and the hopes of no regrets
Switching to United is a leap. The Premier League is cutthroat, and United are rebuilding. Yet Nico was clear: he didn’t want football at the cost of real relationships. He believes Rashford has his back—and he’s ready to bring his flair to the Theatre of Dreams.
> “I hope I won’t regret this decision later,” Nico said. “If we stick to our plan—work hard, improve every day—I believe we will look back and smile at the choice we made together.”
The bottom line?
In a transfer season driven by big names and massive fees, Nico Williams picked emotion over economics. He chose friendship with Marcus Rashford, unity over glamour, and the promise of a partnership that could define both of their careers. In this era of contractual chess moves, that kind of loyalty feels surprisingly refreshing.
Now, eyes are on United: will this bond fuel success? If Nico’s right, it’s not just football—it’s friendship on full display.