Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has expressed disappointment over Iñaki Williams' decision to retire from international football with the Black Stars. Williams, 32, announced his retirement on September 11, 2026, ending his four-year international career with Ghana. During his time with the Black Stars, Williams made 28 appearances and scored two goals, featuring in two World Cups and the 2023 AFCON. Okraku stated that the GFA was disturbed by Williams' decision but came to appreciate his circumstances.
According to Okraku, Williams had been playing through a lot of pain and injuries, which contributed to his decision to retire. The GFA President made these comments on Asempa FM, expressing his initial disappointment but later understanding Williams' situation. Okraku emphasized that the GFA has to appreciate what Williams has done for Ghana during his time with the national team. Williams' retirement came shortly after Ghana's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
Iñaki Williams made his Ghana debut on September 23, 2022, in a friendly against Brazil and was part of the squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He also represented the Black Stars at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In his retirement message, Williams stated that he was leaving the national team with pride and insisted that Ghana would always remain part of him.
Williams' decision to retire was announced on September 11, 2026, and it brought an end to his four-year international career with Ghana. The Athletic Club forward started Ghana's Round of 32 match against Colombia, which ended in a 1-0 defeat and brought the Black Stars' tournament to an end. Okraku's comments reflect the GFA's appreciation for Williams' contributions to the national team.
The GFA President's statement highlights the impact of Williams' retirement on the team and the understanding that his decision was influenced by his physical condition. Williams' international career with Ghana began in 2022 when he switched his allegiance from Spain. His retirement has been acknowledged by the GFA, and the team will move forward with upcoming matches.
Ghana will face The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on Tuesday, September 29, in the 2027 AFCON Qualifier. This match will mark one of the team's first engagements after Williams' retirement. The Black Stars will look to secure a win in the qualifier.
The news of Williams' retirement and Okraku's reaction has been widely reported in the Ghanaian football scene. The GFA President's comments provide insight into the team's perspective on Williams' decision and the appreciation for his contributions to the national team.
Key points
- - Iñaki Williams announced his retirement from the Black Stars on September 11, 2026. - GFA President Kurt Okraku expressed initial disappointment but understands Williams' decision due to pain and injuries. - Williams made 28 appearances and scored two goals for Ghana, featuring in two World Cups and the 2023 AFCON.
