Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde has ruled Ghana forward Inaki Williams out of the Black Stars' upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying games against Angola and Niger.The club statement on Inaki Williams after their midweek Europa League triumph and the lead up to the Real Valladolid league game at the weekend suggested Inaki had an overload in the hamstring of the left leg, which saw him miss Bilbao's 1-1 draw against Valladolid.The 30-year-old forward, who missed Ghana's 2026 World Cup qualifying victories against Mali and Central African Republic with a foot injury in June, has been ruled out by his club coach Ernesto Valverde for the upcoming international break."I see it difficult.
I don't think he can play with Ghana.
I understand that if he doesn't play with us, it will be difficult for him to play with his national team," he said.The comments of the coach all but suggest Black Stars head coach Otto Addo will need to find an alternative option to replace Inaki for the crucial ties.Ghana are on the brink of not making it to the AFCON (a first since 2004) and would need to secure wins against Angola and Niger, in addition to needing a helping hand from Angola and Niger in order to qualify.The Black Stars' qualification hinges on Sudan losing both games while they win both as well.
The first tie against Angola takes place on November 15, with the next taking place three days after.