Inaki Williams Enters Athletic Bilbao’s Top Five

Former Ghana striker Inaki Williams has become the fifth most-capped player in Athletic Bilbao’s history after making his 515th appearance for the Spanish club.

Williams reached the milestone on Saturday, September 12, 2026, when Athletic Bilbao drew 1-1 with Elche in La Liga at San Mames.

The Spain-born striker marked the achievement by scoring the goal that helped Athletic Bilbao secure a point in the match.

Williams moved into fifth place on the club’s all-time appearance list after overtaking former Athletic Bilbao midfielder Joseba Eteberria, who made 514 appearances for the club.

Only four players have made more appearances for the Basque side. Txetxu Rojo is fourth with 541 appearances, while Iker Muniain follows with 560. Oscar de Marcos is second with 573 appearances, with club legend Jose Angel Iribar leading the list with 614 matches.

Athletic Bilbao celebrated Williams’ achievement on social media, writing: “Iñaki Williams enters the TOP-5 of matchs with Athletic Club 515 official games as a lion. And the remaining ones. Congratulations, Williams,”

Williams has scored 116 goals and provided 74 assists for Athletic Bilbao. He has also helped the club win the Copa del Rey and two Spanish Super Cups.

The achievement came just 24 hours after Williams announced his retirement from international football.

The 32-year-old announced his decision on Friday, September 11, 2026, in an emotional message to Ghanaians.

“I feel the time has come to bring my journey with the Ghana national team to an end,” he said in a post on social media.

“I leave happy, proud and with the peace of mind of knowing that I gave everything every time I wore this shirt.

“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 added.

“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.”

Williams scored two goals in 28 appearances for the Black Stars before ending his international career.