Ernesto Valverde casts doubt on Inaki Williamsâ?? availability for Ghana duty after injury

Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde has admitted he is unsure whether Inaki Williams will be able to join the Ghana national team for their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches following an injury picked up.

The Ghana forward limped off during Athletic Bilbao’s 2-1 victory over RCD Mallorca at San Mames on Saturday, sparking concern about his fitness just days before the international break.

Williams had ended his goal drought in the match before being forced off early in the second half.

Speaking after the game, Valverde revealed that the extent of the injury is yet to be determined, making it difficult to confirm whether Williams will report for national duty.

"I don’t know, but I imagine [he won’t go]. I don’t know if they will have to do any tests or what the protocol is, but things are as they are," the Spanish coach told the media.

The 28-year-old was named in Otto Addo’s 24-man squad for Ghana’s crucial qualifiers against the Central African Republic and Comoros.

However, Valverde’s comments suggest that Williams might be forced to withdraw if the injury turns out to be significant.

Athletic Club are expected to carry out further medical examinations to assess the nature and severity of the problem in the coming days.

Ghana are set to open camp in Casablanca on Sunday, October 5, ahead of their clash with the Central African Republic on October 8, before returning home to face Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on October 12.

Williams’ absence would come as a major blow to the Black Stars, who need at least four points from the two matches to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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