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.

Read also

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

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.”

Read also

Kylian Mbappe Makes 'Tough' Call on Cristiano Ronaldo's Legacy Post Euro 2024

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 spotted speaking Twi

Earlier, Legit.ng reported 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:
Chukwu Ikechukwu avatar

Chukwu Ikechukwu (Sports Editor) Chukwu Ikechukwu Godwin is a seasoned sports journalist with over a decade of experience across radio, TV, and online media. His career has seen him contribute his expertise to prominent media outlets such as Today FM, Wish FM, Silverbird Communications, and Sports Brief. Chukwu earned his Bachelor's degree in Agriculture from the University of Port Harcourt in 2016. Email: Chukwu.ikechukwu@corp.legit.ng