Athletic Bilbao captain and Ghana international Iñaki Williams has announced his retirement from the Black Stars, bringing to a close a four-year chapter with the national team at the age of 32.
Williams shared the decision in an emotional message posted on social media today. “I feel the time has come to bring my journey with the Ghana national team to an end,” he wrote. “I leave happy, proud and with the peace of mind of knowing that I gave everything every time I wore this shirt.”
Born in Bilbao, Spain, to Ghanaian parents, Williams switched his international allegiance from Spain to Ghana in 2022 after making one senior appearance for the Spanish national team. He made his Black Stars debut in June 2022 and went on to earn 28 caps, scoring two goals.
During his time with Ghana, Williams represented the Black Stars at three major tournaments: the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Reflecting on the deeper meaning of his international career, Williams said: “Ghana has given me much more than football. It has allowed me to come back home, feel even closer to my roots and experience the enormous pride of representing my country and wearing this flag on my chest.”
He expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout the journey and pledged to remain a steadfast supporter of the national team. “Ghana will always be a part of me. I will continue supporting the Black Stars as one of you, wherever I am. Medaase. Always Ghana.”
Williams will continue his club career as captain of Athletic Bilbao, where he remains a key figure and one of La Liga’s most respected players.