Jose Mourinho hopes that Nico Williams will eventually make a move to Real Madrid when he decides to leave Athletic Bilbao.
The Fenerbahce boss is set to face off against the Basque side and Williams on Wednesday afternoon, with Mourinho aiming to neutralise the Spain international in a bid to secure three points.
This would aid his side’s late push for automatic qualification to the Europa League round of 16.
Williams attracted significant interest after an impressive 2023/24 season, where he was a key figure in Spain’s successful Euro 2024 campaign.
However, this season has been more challenging for the 22-year-old, who has netted just two goals in 20 appearances, although he has contributed five assists.
With a reported release clause of €58million (£47.8m), Williams was heavily linked with a move to Arsenal over the summer.
Despite this, Jose Mourinho would prefer to see the winger stay in La Liga, where he could continue to develop his talent at one of the league’s biggest clubs.
“Nico is wonderful,” said the former Manchester United and Chelsea manager. “At the last Euros, everyone was talking about Yamal, Yamal, Yamal… who is obviously another fantastic young player.
“But personally, I prefer Nico; he is a fantastic footballer. One cannot think that a Turkish club could sign him; I hope he ends up at Real Madrid.”
“I am very much a Real Madrid fan; they have the best coach in the world, my friend Carlo,” Mourinho added.
“In the future, it will be up to the club to decide whether they prefer a young coach like Xabi Alonso or someone with experience like Ancelotti.
“They could also consider promoting from within with Raúl or Arbeloa. Florentino [Perez] has not made many wrong decisions, and I’m sure he will get it right next time.
“We need to remain calm; I think the same as Carlo. The victories will come.”
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