BY NADIA NTIAMOAH
Athletic Bilbao forward Iñaki Williams has brought his four-year international career with Ghana to an end, announcing his retirement from the Black Stars at the age of 32.
Williams confirmed his decision in a statement published on X on Friday, September 11, saying he had reached the point where he felt it was time to close his chapter with the national team after representing Ghana at three major tournaments.
“I feel the time has come to bring my journey with the Ghana national team to an end,” Williams said. “I leave happy, proud and with the peace of mind of knowing that I gave everything every time I wore this shirt.”
The forward switched his international allegiance from Spain to Ghana in 2022, reconnecting with the country of his heritage and making his Black Stars debut later that year. His decision to represent Ghana came at a significant stage of his career and quickly made him one of the most recognisable players in the national setup.
Williams subsequently featured at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, giving him the opportunity to represent Ghana on football’s biggest international stages.
However, Williams says his Black Stars experience went beyond appearances, goals and major tournaments. He described his time with Ghana as a deeply personal journey that allowed him to reconnect with his roots and experience the pride of representing the country.
“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 said.
The Athletic Club attacker also expressed gratitude to Ghanaians for the affection and support they showed him throughout his international career, acknowledging the emotional connection he developed with supporters.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has been part of this journey and for all the love you have always shown me,” he added.
Although he will no longer be available for selection, Williams made it clear that retirement from the Black Stars does not mean turning his back on Ghana. He pledged to continue following and supporting the national team from afar.
“Ghana will always be a part of me. I will continue supporting the @blackstarsofghana_as one of you, wherever I am,” he said.
His decision brings an end to a chapter that began with his switch from Spain to Ghana in 2022 and included World Cup and AFCON appearances. While his international career with the Black Stars is now over, Williams leaves behind a lasting connection with Ghana that, in his own words, extends far beyond football.
