When asked about the news, Dreesen acknowledged the extension and shared his thoughts on the matter. He noted that a ten-year contract is a significant statement, particularly considering Nico's Basque heritage and Athletic's commitment to using only Basque players. Dreesen also emphasized that Nico was no longer a focus for Bayern, as he had primarily been in discussions with Barcelona.
It's worth noting that Nico's new contract includes an increase in his buyout clause, rising from €58 million to €100 million. This development may have implications for Barcelona, who had been in talks with Nico, rather than Bayern, who had also been interested in his services.
Despite the competition for Nico's services, Dreesen chose to focus on Athletic's commitment to their player and the club's values, rather than dwelling on the potential missed opportunity for Bayern.
The situation highlights the complexities of player transfers and the various factors that can influence a club's decision-making process. In this case, Athletic Bilbao's loyalty to their players and their commitment to their values has paid off with Nico's commitment to a long-term deal.
