Athletic Club forward Inaki Williams has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 32, bringing his four-year journey with the Ghana national team to an end.
Williams made 28 appearances for the Black Stars after switching his international allegiance from Spain to Ghana in July 2022.
During his time with Ghana, the forward scored twice and represented the country at two FIFA World Cup tournaments — Qatar 2022 and the 2026 World Cup.
He was also part of Ghana’s squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, where the Black Stars failed to progress beyond the group stage.
Williams previously represented Spain at senior level, making one appearance in a friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2016.
After becoming eligible to represent Ghana, he received his first Black Stars call-up in September 2022 from then-head coach Otto Addo for pre-World Cup friendly matches against Brazil and Nicaragua.
Announcing his decision, Williams said he believed the time had come to end his international career.
“I feel the time has come to bring my journey with the Ghana national team to an end,” he wrote on social media.
The Athletic Club striker said he leaves the national team with pride and satisfaction, knowing he gave his best whenever he represented Ghana.
He also reflected on the personal significance of playing for the Black Stars, saying Ghana gave him an opportunity to reconnect with his roots and experience the pride of representing the country.
Williams thanked his teammates, coaches, officials, supporters and everyone who had been part of his journey with the national team.
He also pledged to continue supporting the Black Stars despite no longer being part of the squad.
“Ghana will always be a part of me. I will continue supporting the Black Stars as one of you, wherever I am.”
He ended his message with a heartfelt “Medaase. Always Ghana.”
Williams now turns his full attention to his club career with Athletic Club following his decision to step away from international football.
Williams’ decision marks the end of a chapter that began with considerable excitement following his switch from Spain to Ghana.
As one of the country’s most prominent players based in Europe, his arrival raised expectations among supporters who hoped his pace, experience and versatility would strengthen the Black Stars.
Although his international career did not produce the number of goals many expected, Williams remained an important option in Ghana’s attack and featured at two World Cups.
His decision to retire at 32 will now leave the technical team with another experienced attacking player to replace as the Black Stars prepare for upcoming international assignments.
