Since snubbing a move to Arsenal, Williams has somewhat struggled to regularly contribute in attack. From 37 appearances in all competitions, he has scored nine goals and racked up seven assists but his record of six goal contributions from 10 games in the Europa League is particularly impressive.
The 22-year-old has, however, scarcely featured for his country since their Euro 2024 triumph, but that changed on Thursday evening. After starting just one of the last four Nations League games, Williams was given the nod from the off against the Netherlands and he swiftly repaid the faith of Luis de la Fuente after just nine minutes.
Once fed the ball by Pedri, Williams turned quickly and unleashed a powerful effort which flew under Mark Verbruggen. Goals from Cody Gakpo and Tijjani Reijnders put the Dutch ahead, but Arsenal star Mikel Merino, off the bench, equalised deep into added time and Arteta certainly would have liked the sight of this goal.
After some great work to find space coming inside from the left by Williams, his goal-bound shot was parried directly into the path of Merino who then had the simplest of finishes. The Bilbao star had jinked his way into that space exactly how Bukayo Saka would do on the opposite flank while Merino continued his fine goal-scoring form.
With a big summer transfer window expected in north London, Arsenal could make another play for Williams especially as Arteta just got a glimpse of what he could bring to the Gunners. There is no guarantee he would accept the move however, with it clear the love he has for his boyhood club runs deep.
“This relationship we have at the heart of the club is incredible. Everyone respects everyone else, which is incredible," Williams said in a recent interview with France Football.
This atmosphere, I’ll never have it anywhere else. I decided to stay because of that. I took the decision I thought was the right one. I’m happy, and I’m trying to do my best."
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