AFCON 2023 Q: Inaki Williams pulls out of Black Stars squad to face Madagascar

Ghanaian striker Inaki Williams, who plays for the Black Stars, will be unavailable for the upcoming clash against Madagascar in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers due to an injury.

In a statement released on Monday, June 5, Williams explained that he has been experiencing pain in his right knee for the past few weeks. After consulting with the medical team, it was decided that he should stop playing in order to address the issue and be fully fit for the preseason.

Williams expressed his disappointment in not being able to join his national team for the upcoming match, stating, “This wasn’t an easy decision to make because I won’t be able to be with my national team, Ghana, in the next meeting.” However, he assured fans of his commitment and expressed his willingness to return to the Black Stars if the coach deems it appropriate in future call-ups.

He concluded his statement by thanking everyone for their support. Ghana will face Madagascar in an away match on June 18, and a victory in this penultimate qualifier could secure qualification for the Black Stars to participate in the tournament to be held in Ivory Coast.