Brothers Inaki and Nico Williams, who were born in Spain to Ghanaian parents have finally accepted to switch nationality to play for the Ghana Blackstars. Both brothers who were born in Spain currently ply their trades at Athletic Bilbao; and are eligible to play for Ghana.
The parents of the Williams brothers emigrated to the European nation over two decades ago to look for greener pastures. And according to a report by Ghanasoccernet, the duo have finally agreed and accepted to play for the country of their parents. The report further suggests that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has begun processes to facilitate their nationality switch.
This would mean that Inaki and Nico will be available to feature at the 2022 World Cup later this year in Qatar if things go through.
The Black Stars have been paired in a tough Group H, where they’ll be facing Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea.
Meanwhile, during a 2021 interview, it will be recalled that Inaki turned down the opportunity to play for Ghana; citing the reason that he didn’t want to unfairly take the place of any Ghanaian footballer in the national team.
“My parents are from Accra and I really enjoy going there. But I wasn’t born or raised there, my culture’s here, and there are players for whom it would mean more,” he told the Guardian.
“I don’t think it would be right to take the place of someone who really deserves to go and who feels Ghana 100%.”
The 27-year-old also stated that he only has eyes for Spain, explaining that he feels more Spanish than Ghanaian despite having Ghanaian parents.
“I’m grateful to where I grew and became who I am. Ghana tried to convince me, but I was born in Spain, in Bilbao.
“I won’t ever forget my family roots, but I feel Basque and can’t con anyone. I would be comfortable with Ghana, I’m sure, but I shouldn’t be there,” he added.
Ewurama Acheampoma