Ghana FA disturbed over Inaki Williams’ international football retirement

Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kurt Okraku has admitted that the association was disappointed by Iñaki Williams’ decision to retire from international football following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Athletic Bilbao captain recently announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his four year stint with the West African giants.

Williams’ decision has come as a setback for the Black Stars, with the forward having been an important member of the national team since switching his international allegiance from Spain to Ghana in 2022.

Speaking on Asempa FM, Okraku revealed that Williams’ decision initially came as a shock to the GFA but acknowledged that the forward’s reasons for stepping away needed to be understood.

“I was disturbed by his decision. The entire Football Association was disappointed, but when you hear him out, you understand his situation,” Okraku said.

“He has been playing through a lot of pain and injuries. We have to appreciate what he has done for Ghana.”

Williams made his international debut for Ghana after completing his switch of allegiance in 2022, having previously represented Spain at senior level.

Since then, he has made 28 appearances for the Black Stars and scored two goals, while also featuring for the country at major international tournaments.

His decision means the upcoming 2026 World Cup will represent the final chapter of his international career with Ghana.

The forward has experienced a mixed spell with the Black Stars, but his availability and experience have made him part of several national team campaigns since his debut.

For the GFA, however, Okraku believes Williams’ decision should be viewed within the context of the physical challenges he has faced throughout his career.

The association president acknowledged that the forward has continued to represent Ghana despite dealing with pain and injuries, and stressed that his contribution to the national team should be appreciated.

Williams will now have the opportunity to finish his international career by representing Ghana at the 2026 World Cup before stepping away from the Black Stars.

His retirement will subsequently leave Ghana with the task of developing and integrating other attacking options as the team prepares for the next generation of international competitions.