'That's being a sheep' - Nico Williams treatment sparks angry reaction from Unai Simon as Athletic Club goalkeeper hits out at own fans over Barcelona transfer drama

The 27-year-old openly criticised the behaviour of supporters who vandalised Nico’s car and a mural in his honour, amid the ongoing Barcelona transfer speculation.

The Spain international was adamant that Williams never intended to walk away from San Mames, pointing to his recent renewal as proof of his commitment to Athletic. But he didn’t hold back in condemning the actions of those who turned on the 21-year-old forward made blunt remarks against own fans.

Asked directly about Nico’s situation, Simon told Radio Marca: "I didn’t see him leaving Athletic Club. There was already too much talk last year, and with his renewal, he showed that he wanted to stay.”

On the treatment Williams has received from parts of the fanbase, Simon fired back strongly: “That’s not being an Athletic Club fan, that’s being a sheep.”

At one point, Williams looked destined to leave the Basque club for Barcelona, but talks collapsed over reported issues with his agent and fears the club would not be able to register him. He ended up signing a long-term contract extension with Athletic instead, but by then fans had already made their anger clear by targeting the 23-year-old.

Simon’s public backing might also help ease tensions within the dressing room and also sends a strong message to the fans to cool such unrests, but for Williams, the focus will be on performing in the new La Liga season strongly and proving that the renewal was not just a symbolic gesture but a commitment to leading Athletic’s attack on a higher level, to not only cement is position again amongst the fans but also in the national team's squad for upcoming World Cup.