Athletic Club forward Iñaki Williams has announced his retirement from international football with Ghana, bringing an end to his four-year spell with the Black Stars.
Williams confirmed his decision in an emotional statement, saying he believes the time has come to close his chapter with the national team.
“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 32-year-old made his Ghana debut in 2022 after switching his international allegiance from Spain. He went on to represent the Black Stars at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Williams scored two goals during his international career. His first goal came in Ghana’s 1-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Madagascar in November 2023, while his second was scored against Chad during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
His time with Ghana also included difficult moments. The Black Stars failed to progress beyond the group stage at the 2022 World Cup and the 2023 AFCON. At the 2026 World Cup, Ghana advanced to the knockout stage but were eliminated by Colombia in the Round of 32.
Williams made his final World Cup appearances against England and Colombia, playing a combined 126 minutes across the two matches.
In his farewell message, the Athletic Club forward said representing Ghana gave him an opportunity to reconnect with his roots.
“Ghana has given me much more than football,” he said, adding that the experience allowed him to feel closer to his roots and experience the pride of representing the country.
Williams thanked his teammates, coaches, supporters and everyone who contributed to his international career.
He also promised to remain a supporter of the Black Stars despite his retirement.
“Ghana will always be a part of me. I will continue supporting the Black Stars as one of you, wherever I am,” he said.
