Stories and facts
Iñaki Williams Arthuer is not just a name in football; he’s a story of inspiration, talent, and identity.
Born on June 15, 1994, in Bilbao, Spain, to Ghanaian parents who braved a harrowing journey across the Sahara and over the Melilla border fence in search of a better life, Iñaki embodies the power of perseverance.
Today, he’s a star forward for Athletic Bilbao in La Liga and a proud member of the Ghana national team.
From a young age, Iñaki showed remarkable promise. Growing up in Pamplona, he spent hours playing football in his neighborhood before catching the eye of Athletic Bilbao scouts.
At 18, he joined the club’s renowned academy at Lezama, where his talent blossomed. His rise was meteoric; he quickly made his mark, scoring almost a goal per game for the Juvenil A side and turning heads with his skill and work ethic.
In December 2014, Iñaki stepped onto the pitch for his La Liga debut, a moment that solidified his place in Athletic Bilbao’s history. Just a few months later, he became the club’s first black player to score a goal, breaking barriers and inspiring countless fans.
Over the years, his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Known for his lightning speed and consistency, Iñaki set a La Liga record with 251 consecutive games, showcasing his remarkable resilience and dedication.
But his achievements go beyond statistics. Iñaki has delivered some unforgettable moments for Athletic Bilbao, including scoring the decisive goal in the 2020–21 Supercopa de España and playing a key role in their 2023–24 Copa del Rey victory. Off the pitch, he’s a leader and role model, staying loyal to his club despite interest from major teams across Europe.
Iñaki’s international career adds another layer to his unique story. After debuting for Spain in 2016, he chose to represent Ghana in 2022, reconnecting with his heritage.
Donning the Black Stars jersey, he played in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where he embraced Ghanaian traditions, even adopting the local name “Kweku” to honor the day of his birth.
Behind the scenes, Iñaki is deeply connected to his family and roots. His parents named him after a Caritas volunteer who helped them settle in Bilbao, and he remains grounded in the values they instilled.
Fluent in Spanish, Basque, Akan, and English, he bridges cultures effortlessly. Though he admits to losing some fluency in English, he cherishes the Twi dialect, which he uses to stay connected to relatives in Ghana.
Iñaki’s life isn’t just about football; it’s about the human spirit. In 2024, he married Patricia Morales in a heartfelt ceremony at Bilbao’s Begoña Basilica, celebrating love amidst his bustling career.
His younger brother, Nico, is also carving out his own legacy at Athletic Bilbao and with the Spanish national team, adding to the family’s remarkable story.
Iñaki Williams isn’t just a footballer; he’s a story of determination, identity, and the power of staying true to your roots while chasing greatness. His journey goes beyond the pitch, touching the hearts of fans around the world and inspiring them to dream big.
Explore the life of Inaki Williams below.
