Ghana forward Iñaki Williams has ended his international career with the Black Stars after four years of representing the country at three major tournaments.
The Athletic Bilbao striker announced his retirement from international football on Thursday in an emotional statement posted on Instagram, bringing to an end a journey that began with his decision to switch allegiance from Spain to Ghana in 2022.
Williams, who made 28 appearances for the Black Stars and scored twice, said he was leaving the national team with a sense of pride and fulfilment.
He said the decision was based on his feeling that “the time has come” to close the chapter, adding that he was happy and proud of his contribution and had given everything whenever he wore the Ghana shirt.
Three major tournaments
Williams made his Ghana debut in 2022 and went on to feature at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His decision to represent Ghana, the country of his parents, over Spain generated significant interest and gave the Black Stars another high-profile attacking option.
Although his goalscoring record for Ghana did not match his prolific performances at club level, Williams remained part of the national team setup across successive tournament campaigns.
Reflecting on his international journey, the 32-year-old said representing Ghana had significance beyond football, particularly because it allowed him to reconnect with his heritage.
He thanked Ghanaians and others who supported him throughout his time with the Black Stars and assured the country that his connection with Ghana would continue despite his retirement.
Williams said he would continue to support the Black Stars and cheer the team on “as one of you, wherever I am.”
He ended his message with the Twi expression, “Medaase. Always Ghana,” reaffirming his connection to the country.
Williams will now focus exclusively on his club career with Athletic Bilbao after bringing his four-year international spell with Ghana to a close.
