“I was surprised”; “I didn’t expect it” - Barcelona target claims Real Madrid icon Luka Modric sent Croatia staff to ask for his shirt at Euro 2024
Barcelona target Nico Williams was surprised when Real Madrid veteran Luca Modric requested for his shirt after Spain's victory over Croatia at the ongoing Euro 2024 tournament.
Williams played a key role as Spain secured an emphatic 3-0 win over 2018 World Cup finalist Croatia in their opening group game. The Athletic Bilbao winger, who is currently linked with Barcelona, played 68 minutes in the encounter, and his performance seemingly caught the eye of Croatia captain Modric.
Speaking during an interview, as quoted by Marca, Williams revealed getting surprised when told that Modric had requested his shirt after the game. He said:
"I exchanged my shirt with Luka Modrić. I was surprised. A staff member of Croatia came to me and told me that Modrić wanted my shirt. I didn't expect it and I was left thinking and wondering what I had done for this, for players like Modrić to recognize me. It fills you with pride."
Williams is currently enjoying a productive campaign with Spain at the ongoing Euro 2024. His side will next face Georgia in the Round of 16 of the tournament.
Nico Williams responds to transfer rumours amid links to Barcelona
The 21-year-old Bilbao winger said he wasn't distracted by transfer rumours while on international duty with Spain at Euro 2024. Barcelona are among the European giants reportedly interested in his services. When asked about the now-growing interest in him from top clubs this summer, he said via (The Athletic):
"Everything that comes from outside is good, it means I’m doing my job well. Every kid dreams of being noticed by big clubs.”
When quizzed further on interest from La Liga giants Barca, Williams said:
"I’m focused on doing well at the European Championship, and whatever comes after that I’ll find out because these days I’m totally disconnected.”
It will be interesting to see if a move away to Athletic Bilbao will eventually materialize this summer amid reported interest from some top clubs. He is believed to have a release clause of around €58 million, as claimed by Fabrizio Romano.