Full name: Nicholas Williams Arthuer
Date of Birth: 12 July 2002
Place of Birth: Pamplona, Spain
Height: 1.81 m (5 ft 11 in)
Position: Winger /Forward
Current Club: Athletic Bilbao
Jersey Number: 11
Behind every extraordinary athlete, there is a compelling narrative of perseverance and determination. Nico Williams' career facts from childhood embody this ethos, with parents, who instilled in him a deep-seated attribute of relentlessly going after what you want. His father and mother can be credited with shaping his early years, navigating challenges with resilience and steadfastness.
Currently plying his trade at Athletic Bilbao, he continues to forge ahead on his path, undeterred by obstacles, embodying a spirit of unwavering commitment and reflecting his upbringing and the values instilled in him. Now, let's delve into these 7 fascinating facts that trace his journey from a local club to international stardom at a remarkably young age.
Below Are 7 Interesting Nico Williams Facts From Childhood in Spain to Stardom
1. He was Born in Pamplona, Navarre, Spain
Nico Williams was born on July 12, 2002, in Pamplona, the capital of Navarre province in northern Spain. Growing up in this vibrant city, a chartered community known for the famous Running of the Bulls, part of the Feast of San Fermín held every July, Nico developed an early passion for football.
Inspired by the rich cultural heritage and fervent support for the sport in the region, his upbringing in Pamplona played a crucial role in shaping his football career, providing him with the initial platform to pursue his dreams.
2. He Began His Football Career at CD Pamplona At Age 8
Going 156.9 kilometres by road from his birthplace, Nico Williams began his football career at CD Pamplona at age 8 in 2010. After two years at CD Pamplona, he moved to Osasuna’s Youth Academy, where he spent 12 months developing his skills. When he was 10 years old, Nico joined Athletic Bilbao's academy in 2013, where he would spend the next six years honing his talent and laying the foundation for his future success.
3. He Began his Senior Career at Basconia
Nico Williams began his senior career with Athletic Bilbao's feeder club, Basconia, where his talent and potential quickly became evident. Joining the club in 2019, his impressive performances earned him a promotion to the reserve team, Athletic Bilbao II, in Segunda División B in May 2020. Nico made his first team and La Liga debut on April 28, 2021, marking the beginning of his journey at the top level of Spanish football.
4. He Has An Elder Brother, Who Is Also a Footballer
Fabian Ruiz's elder brother, Iñaki Ruiz, is also a professional footballer. Iñaki, a forward, was brought up at Athletic Bilbao. On the day Fabian made his first-team and La Liga debut on April 28, 2021, coming on as a second-half substitute in a 2–2 home draw against Real Valladolid, his brother Iñaki also entered the game a few minutes later, marking the first time two siblings played simultaneously for Athletic Bilbao since 1986 when Julio and Patxi Salinas played together.
5. He Represents Spain Internationally After Rising through the Ranks
Nico's international journey began with Spain's under-18 squad in 2020, scoring two goals in four games. He progressed to the under-19s in February 2021 and debuted for the under-21s in September 2021. Nico earned his first senior call-up for the 2022–23 UEFA Nations League in September 2022, debuting in a 2-1 home defeat against Switzerland. He scored his maiden goal against Jordan on November 17, marking his senior career.
Nico was later included in Spain's 2022 FIFA World Cup squad, appearing four times, including one start. He continued his ascent by starting for Spain in Euro 2024's opening 3-0 victory over Croatia in Berlin, scoring twice in the competition. His second goal came in the 2-1 final win over England, where he was named Man of the Match as Luis de la Fuente's team lifted the trophy.
6. He is of Ghanaian Heritage through his Parents Maria Arthuer and Felix Williams
He is of Ghanaian descent. Fabian's heritage reflects a journey of resilience through his Ghanaian parents, Maria Arthuer and Felix Williams. His father and mother traversed the Sahara Desert, enduring hardship and abandonment, to reach Melilla, an autonomous Spanish city in North Africa. It was in Melilla where Iñaki, his elder brother, was born shortly after their parents' arrival, shaping their Ghanaian-Spanish roots.
7. He was A Fan of Ex-Ghana Striker Asamoah Gyan
Nico Williams deeply admired former Ghanaian striker Asamoah Gyan during his formative years. Gyan's prolific career, marked by his goal-scoring prowess and memorable moments on the international stage, captured Nico's imagination and fueled his passion for football.
As a young fan, Nico drew inspiration from Gyan's achievements, which shaped his aspirations and dedication to the sport.