Ghanaian forward Inaki Williams has come to the defence of his younger brother, Nico Williams, after his image was defaced on a mural in Barakaldo, Spain.

The mural, which celebrated Athletic Club’s 2023/24 Copa del Rey triumph, originally featured Nico, Inaki, and club captain Iker Muniain.

Tensions have risen among Athletic fans following growing reports that Nico is close to joining FC Barcelona. His possible departure has left some supporters fuming, leading to the defacement of the mural. Nico's face was removed, and a message was scrawled in its place: “Leave or stay, you’ve disrespected us.”

Photos of the vandalised mural quickly went viral, prompting a strong reaction from Inaki, who condemned the act via social media.

"Behind an anonymous lack of respect, there is always someone too small to show their face," Inaki wrote.

Athletic also issued a firm statement in support of Nico, making it clear that the actions of a few do not reflect the values of the club.

“The dignity of a club is also reflected in the way it protects its own. That’s why those who erased Nico’s image from the mural by artist Carlos López in Barakaldo don’t represent Athletic Club. And if they think they’re part of this family, they’re wrong: disrespecting one of our own is disrespecting Athletic Club itself,” the statement read.

Nico has been one of Athletic's standout performers in recent seasons. The 22-year-old winger played a key role in securing a UEFA Champions League spot for the team, scoring 11 goals and providing 7 assists in 41 appearances across all competitions last season, his most productive campaign yet.

His impressive performances have attracted interest from top European clubs, including Bayern Munich and Arsenal. However, Nico is believed to favour a move to Barcelona to continue his career in La Liga.