The iconic mural dedicated to Athletic Bilbao stars Iñaki Williams and Nico Williams in the Lutxana neighbourhood of Barakaldo has been vandalized once more.
On Sunday morning, the artwork — a symbol of pride for the club since their Copa del Rey victory at La Cartuja in 2024 — was found covered in fresh offensive graffiti targeting the two brothers.
This time, the vandals drew targets on the players’ faces and wrote messages such as:
“Spanish Real Madrid supporters, out of Bilbao”
“More time messing around than playing football”
“Less Ibai and more Athletic”
The slogans mix sporting criticism with identity-based accusations.
According to Europa Press, the attack came shortly after it emerged that the Williams brothers had been filming content with popular streamer Ibai Llanos. They were also recently seen together walking the streets of Barakaldo, which appears to have triggered a hostile reaction from a small minority.
This is not the first time the mural has been defaced. Created by urban artist Carlos López in March 2024 to celebrate Athletic’s Copa del Rey triumph, the artwork was already targeted twice in 2025. In June last year, amid transfer rumors linking Nico Williams to FC Barcelona, graffiti appeared with messages like:
“Whether you stay or leave, you’ve lost all respect.”
The repeated vandalism has once again sparked outrage among Athletic fans and locals who see the mural as a tribute to two of the club’s most beloved modern players.
No group has claimed responsibility for the latest attack, and local authorities have not yet announced any arrests or suspects. The incident highlights ongoing tensions around identity, loyalty and the Williams brothers’ high-profile status in Basque football.
