Raul Garcia and Inaki Williams
Raul Garcia believes Inaki Williams’ upbringing at Athletic Bilbao could be the reason behind his struggles with the Ghanaian national football team, the Black Stars.
Williams, born and raised in the Basque region of Spain, switched nationalities to play for the Black Stars in 2022, making his debut in an international friendly against Brazil in Le Havre in September of that year.
However, his Ghana career has been underwhelming, having made 17 appearances and scored only once for the Black Stars.
In contrast, his club career was flamboyant during that same period, helping Bilbao win the Copa del Rey for the first time in 40 years, in addition to his two Spanish Super Cups.
Garcia, who has shared the pitch the most with the Ghana international during his time with Athletic Bilbao, insists Williams will find his feet in the team when he properly settles.
“It is true that he has not reached the desired levels when he plays for Ghana,” he told LALIGA press.
“This is, however, no excuse, but normally, for these matches, you have to travel long hours, and this is not good for the performance of a player. But he wants to do things the right way, and he wants to be there,” he added.
“Obviously, the circumstances of having brand new colleagues and not really being adapted to the team don’t make the situation any easier. As you say, he’s playing in the north of Spain, and we’ve all known each other for many years, so it makes it easier.
“But I’m sure Inaki will achieve wonderful results, and he is aware that he has to forge ahead. I am sure he will find form in the team soon enough.”
This season, Williams has netted four goals and provided five assists in 18 La Liga games as the Rojiblancos comfortably sit in fourth place.
