Inaki Williams announces retirement from Ghana national team

Athletic Bilbao captain Inaki Williams has announced his retirement from international football with Ghana, bringing an end to four years with the Black Stars.

Williams, 32, made the announcement on Friday, saying he felt 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,” Williams said in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter.

“I leave happy, proud and with the peace of mind of knowing that I gave everything every time I wore this shirt.”

Williams switched his international allegiance from Spain to Ghana in 2022 and made his Black Stars debut in June that year.

He went on to win 28 caps for Ghana, scoring twice, and represented the country at three major tournaments.

The forward was part of Ghana's squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast and the 2026 World Cup.

Before choosing Ghana, Williams made one appearance for Spain at senior level.

In his farewell message, Williams said representing Ghana had given him a deeper connection with his heritage.

“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 added.

Williams also thanked supporters and everyone who had played a role in his international career.

“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.”

His decision brings to an end a career that included two World Cup appearances and a spell in which he became one of Ghana's most recognisable players.

Williams will now focus on his club career with Athletic Bilbao, where he serves as captain, while continuing to support the Black Stars from afar.