Ghana Football Association president Kurt Okraku has urged supporters to appreciate Iñaki Williams's commitment after the Athletic Bilbao forward announced his retirement from the Black Stars. Williams, who switched allegiance from Spain in 2022, ends his international career with 28 caps and two goals, having featured at the 2022 and 2026 World Cups.
Okraku admitted the decision was a blow to the national setup. "I was disturbed by his decision," the GFA president said. "The entire Football Association was disappointed, but when you hear him out, you understand his situation." He revealed that Williams had been managing persistent physical issues, a factor clear from the team's injuries reports, which often listed him as playing through pain.
Williams made his Ghana debut in a friendly against Brazil in September 2022 and went on to play a role in the team's recent World Cup campaign. He started the goalless draw with England and the Round of 32 defeat to Colombia last July. His first goal, a 96th-minute winner against Madagascar in November 2023, secured a vital qualifying victory. His second and final goal came in a subsequent qualifier against the Central African Republic, contributing to his total of two from 28 appearances, a full record available in the team's stats archive.
The GFA president highlighted the physical toll on the 32-year-old. "He has been playing through a lot of pain and injuries," Okraku stated. "We have to appreciate what he has done for Ghana." He asked fans to look beyond the modest scoring tally and recognise the forward's effort across his four-year stint.
Williams's retirement comes as Ghana, who are third in their World Cup qualifying group with four points from four matches according to the latest standings, prepare for their next qualifier against Gambia. The team's recent form shows one win in their last five matches across all competitions, a period that includes that narrow loss to Colombia. The Black Stars host Gambia on Tuesday, 29 September, a key match in their fixtures as they aim to improve their group position.
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