Iñaki Williams established a La Liga record by participating in 251 consecutive matches for Athletic Bilbao, a streak spanning more than six years. Born in Bilbao in 1994 to Ghanaian parents, he developed through the club's Lezama academy before becoming a permanent fixture in the senior squad, where he serves as a forward and team captain.
Early Career and Athletic Bilbao Development
Raised in the Rochapea neighbourhood of Pamplona, Williams played youth football for CD Pamplona before joining Athletic Bilbao’s setup at age 18. He spent the 2013–14 season alternating between the farm team Basconia and the reserves, Bilbao Athletic. His prolific scoring record in the lower divisions—including 13 goals in 18 appearances during the first half of the 2014–15 season—facilitated his progression to the top flight.
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Williams debuted for the first team on 6 December 2014 against Córdoba. By February 2015, he recorded his first goal in the UEFA Europa League against Torino, becoming the club's first black goalscorer. He subsequently scored in the 2015 Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. Following these performances, he secured long-term contracts, including a nine-year deal signed in August 2019 that included a significant buyout clause.
Domestic Success and Records
His tenure at Athletic Bilbao features notable achievements, such as winning the 2020–21 Supercopa de España and the 2023–24 Copa del Rey. Beyond individual records for consecutive appearances, he gained attention for his persistent physical resilience, including playing two years with a two-centimetre shard of glass embedded in his foot, a condition reported by manager Ernesto Valverde in May 2024.
International Representation
Although he appeared once for the Spain national team in 2016, Williams opted to represent Ghana at the international level starting in 2022. He has since participated in two FIFA World Cup tournaments and the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. His younger brother, Nico, also plays professionally for Athletic Bilbao.
Fast facts
- Born: 15 June 1994, Bilbao
- Current Club: Athletic Bilbao
- International Allegiance: Ghana
- La Liga consecutive match record: 251
- Position: Forward
- Languages spoken: Spanish, English, Basque, Twi
Questions readers ask
Did Iñaki Williams play for more than one national team?
Yes, he made one appearance for Spain in 2016 before switching his international allegiance to Ghana in 2022.
How long was his consecutive match streak?
He played in 251 consecutive La Liga matches, a streak that ended in January 2023.
