Inaki Played for Ghana in Pain – Kurt Okraku

Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has revealed that Inaki Williams sometimes played for the Black Stars despite suffering pain and injuries before retiring from international football.

Okraku said the GFA was disappointed when the Athletic Bilbao captain decided to end his international career, as the association did not expect him to make the decision at this stage.

However, after speaking with Williams about his decision, Okraku said he understood the striker’s situation and the challenges he faced while playing for Ghana.

According to him, Williams had continued to represent the Black Stars despite dealing with pain and injuries picked up during his career.

“I was disturbed by his decision. The entire Football Association was disappointed, but when you hear him out, you understand his situation. He has been playing through a lot of pain and injuries. We have to appreciate what he has done for Ghana,” he said.

Okraku added that Ghana must recognise Williams’ commitment to the national team despite the difficulties he faced.

Williams switched his international allegiance from Spain to Ghana in 2022 after becoming eligible to represent the country of his parents. He made his Black Stars debut in June that year.

The Athletic Bilbao forward went on to make 28 appearances for Ghana and scored two goals.

His performances at club level had created high expectations among Ghanaian supporters, who hoped he would produce the same attacking impact for the national team.

Williams was part of Ghana’s squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire. He also featured for the Black Stars in their campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Okraku’s comments come as Ghana reflects on Williams’ international career and his contribution to the national team before his retirement.