The Spanish club Athletic Bilbao issued a statement commenting on the destruction by some of its angry fans of the image of the team's star Nico Williams from a famous mural in the city, due to reports about his potential move to Barcelona.

The statement read: "The dignity of the club is the dignity of the people who make it up and is measured by its ability to act in a manner consistent with its own values, without falling into provocations... Respect is one of the fundamental pillars of our club."

It continued: "Summer has just begun and reports about Nico Williams, a player who currently has a contract with the club until 2027, are abundant in the media and on social media. Alongside them, endless comments and reactions of all kinds. Nico is one of us. A player who grew up in Lezama, loved in the locker room."

It added: "Those who erased Nico's image from the mural by artist Carlos López in Barakaldo do not represent Athletic. And if you think you are part of this family, you should know that you are mistaken: disrespecting one of our own is disrespecting the club itself."

It continued: "The club is aware that the current situation may generate some anxiety among sports fans, especially when fueled by rumors or arrogance or disdain for our identity. But being from Athletic also means knowing how to keep your composure. The sports defense acts with respect, does not fall into provocation or lose its values."

It also stated: "The club will firmly and resolutely defend its interests wherever necessary, always remaining true to its principles. But sports is much more than a sum of individualities. It is a family, a group, a community united by a special way of understanding football."

The club has already contacted street artist Carlos López, so that he can, as soon as possible, assist in everything he needs, from restoring Nico Williams in the mural, alongside his brother Iñaki.