Bilbao: Inaki Williams netted his first La Liga goal of the new season 24 hours after his international retirement as Athletic Bilbao shared the spoils with Elche on Saturday afternoon. The Spain-born forward ensured the ball crossed the line following an Alex Berenguer goal-bound effort that appeared headed for a goal-line clearance with ten minutes remaining. Elche had opened the scoring early in the second half after Facundo Buonanotte converted from the penalty spot.
According to Ghana Web, Williams announced on Friday that he was retiring from the Ghana national team after making 28 appearances and scoring two goals for the Black Stars. In a heartfelt social media post, he stated, "I feel the time has come to bring my journey with the Ghana national team to an end. I leave happy, proud and with the peace of mind of knowing that I gave everything every time I wore this shirt."
The timing of Williams' decision is noteworthy as it comes just two weeks before Ghana's return to international action in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The Black Stars are set to face formidable opponents Ivory Coast and The Gambia in the September break.
Reflecting on his time with the national team, Williams expressed gratitude, saying, "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 continued, "Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has been part of this journey and for all the love you have always shown me. Ghana will always be a part of me. I will continue supporting the Black Stars as one of you, wherever I am."
Although his retirement from international football surprised many fans, Williams is now set to focus entirely on his club career at Athletic Bilbao.