Nico Williams to Arsenal: The Missing Spark or an Unnecessary Luxury?
Arsenal’s resurgence under Mikel Arteta has been nothing short of impressive. Over the past few seasons, the club has transitioned from an inconsistent side to a legitimate title contender in the Premier League. While much of this progress has been driven by tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and smart recruitment, there are still key areas that require reinforcement if Arsenal is to consistently challenge for major honors.
One of those areas is winger depth and unpredictability in attack. Bukayo Saka has become an undisputed star on the right wing, providing goals, assists, and relentless pressing. Gabriel Martinelli, on the left, is a dynamic forward who stretches defenses with his direct running. However, Arsenal’s attack remains somewhat predictable—teams often double up on Saka, and when Martinelli struggles, Arsenal lacks another genuine 1v1 specialist who can take on defenders and create space.
This is where Nico Williams enters the discussion. The Athletic Club winger has been one of La Liga’s most exciting attacking players, and Arsenal’s interest in him is well-founded. Reports suggest Arsenal were ready to trigger his €58 million (£50 million) release clause in January, but a move ultimately didn’t materialize. With the summer transfer window approaching, the question is: Should Arsenal prioritize Williams, and would he be the right fit for the squad?
What Makes Nico Williams Special?
Williams is a 22-year-old Spanish international with a playing style built on pace, technical ability, and explosive dribbling. His ability to beat defenders in 1v1 situations is among the best in Europe, making him a rare profile in the modern game where direct wingers are becoming less common.
Data via Opta | Visualization by Cannon Stats | Created: March 18, 2025
His dribbling ability is particularly noteworthy. He ranks in the top five percent of wingers in Europe for successful dribbles per 90 minutes, often using quick changes of direction and acceleration to bypass defenders. This makes him a nightmare for teams that rely on a deep defensive block, as he has the ability to break lines through individual skill rather than passing combinations alone. His creative output is equally impressive, averaging between 0.17 and 0.19 expected assists per 90 minutes. This suggests he is not only a ball progressor but also a genuine playmaker who can deliver quality final balls into dangerous areas.
One of the more surprising aspects of his game is his defensive work rate. Many wingers of his profile tend to shy away from off-the-ball duties, but Williams ranks in the 92nd percentile for blocks among attacking players. He presses well, tracks back to support his full-back, and fits the mold of a hard-working wide player that Arteta values. While he is not a defensive powerhouse, his work ethic ensures he would not become a liability when Arsenal is out of possession.
Data via Opta | Visualization by Cannon Stats | Created: March 18, 2025
However, his finishing remains a work in progress. His non-penalty expected goals per 90 stand at 0.8, yet he underperforms that number with an actual conversion rate of 0.6. This suggests that while he gets into good positions, his composure in front of goal still needs refinement. Unlike Bukayo Saka or Gabriel Martinelli, who have both improved their end product over time, Williams has yet to show that he can be a consistent goal threat at the highest level.
How Williams Would Fit into Arteta’s System
Arsenal’s tactical setup under Arteta relies heavily on wingers who can stretch defenses while also contributing to buildup play. Saka’s presence on the right flank has given Arsenal a near-constant source of attacking danger, but the left side has been more inconsistent. Martinelli provides pace and movement, but when he is out of form, Arsenal lacks an alternative who can provide something different.
Williams would add that alternative. His presence would immediately offer Arsenal another high-level dribbler who can break down compact defenses. Too often, Arsenal has struggled against teams that sit deep and absorb pressure, forcing them into predictable passing sequences around the edge of the box. Williams’ ability to take on defenders directly would force opposition teams to commit more players to him, creating more space for Arsenal’s playmakers like Martin Ødegaard.
Additionally, Williams’ versatility means he could play multiple roles in Arteta’s attack. While primarily a left winger, he is comfortable on the right and could provide rotation for Saka, reducing the heavy workload that Arsenal’s star winger has carried over the past two seasons. Having Williams as an option would allow Arteta to keep his best players fresher for key moments in the season without a significant drop in quality.
Another major advantage is how Williams’ skill set complements Arsenal’s existing attackers. While Martinelli is a more direct runner who thrives in space, Williams excels in tight areas, making him more effective against deep-lying defenses. This gives Arteta the option to adjust his lineup depending on the opponent. Against teams that press high, Martinelli’s ability to exploit space in behind would still be valuable. Against teams that sit back, Williams’ dribbling would be a more useful tool.
While his defensive numbers are respectable, he would need to adapt to the intensity of Arsenal’s pressing game. Playing under Ernesto Valverde at Athletic Club, Williams has learned to track back and press when required, but Arteta’s system demands even more discipline. Fortunately, his willingness to work off the ball suggests he could make that transition without major issues.
How Williams Compares to Arsenal’s Current Wingers
Statistically, Williams stands out as one of the best dribblers in Europe, far surpassing both Martinelli and Saka in this department. He averages 10.45 successful dribbles per 90 minutes, whereas Martinelli manages 5.6 and Saka just 3.8. His progressive carries are also elite, ranking in the 97th percentile for wingers. However, when it comes to goal-scoring contributions, he falls behind. Martinelli and Saka both outscore him, and his finishing remains an area that needs improvement.
Data via Opta | Visualization by Cannon Stats | Created: March 18, 2025
What this means for Arsenal is that Williams would not necessarily be a direct replacement for either Saka or Martinelli but rather an alternative profile who offers qualities that neither of them possesses at the same level. His arrival would give Arteta more tactical flexibility, ensuring that Arsenal has different solutions for different types of opponents.
Final Verdict: Should Arsenal Sign Nico Williams?
Williams is a highly talented winger with attributes that Arsenal could certainly use, but whether he should be a top priority depends on the club’s summer plans. If Arsenal secures a top striker and a defensive midfielder first, then Williams would be a fantastic addition to the squad. His ability to break down compact defenses, provide depth on both wings, and add unpredictability to Arsenal’s attack makes him an ideal signing—if the finances allow.
However, if signing Williams means neglecting other key areas, particularly at striker, then Arsenal may need to reconsider. The club has been heavily linked with Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko, both of whom would provide the goal-scoring presence Arsenal currently lacks. Additionally, Martin Zubimendi is seen as a potential midfield reinforcement, and that move could take priority over a new winger.
Ultimately, Williams is a player that fits Arsenal’s tactical needs and financial strategy. His €58 million release clause is reasonable compared to other wingers on the market, and his age suggests that he still has room to improve. If Arsenal can structure the deal wisely—perhaps paying in installments or using player sales to fund the move—then signing Williams would be a logical step in Arteta’s long-term squad evolution.
For now, the decision will likely hinge on how much Arsenal prioritizes their other needs. If they can address their striking and midfield concerns first, Williams could be the signing that takes Arsenal’s attack to the next level.
