Veteran Ghana Andre Ayew captain is reportedly on the verge of missing out on the Black Stars squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in what would become one of the most high-profile selection decisions of the Carlos Queiroz era.
According to multiple reports, the experienced forward is not expected to be included in Ghana’s final 26-man list for the tournament, with indications suggesting he had already fallen out of contention weeks earlier.
Ayew, now 36, has not represented the Black Stars since Ghana’s disappointing group-stage elimination at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Since then, uncertainty has surrounded his international future, especially as the national team begins shifting toward a younger generation under new leadership.
Although the former captain attempted to reignite his career with Dutch side after signing a short-term contract in January, his efforts appear to have done little to alter the technical team’s stance. The attacker endured a difficult campaign, scoring once in 16 appearances before departing the club following their relegation from the Eredivisie.
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Reports further claim Ayew was not even part of Ghana’s provisional 53-man squad initially submitted to FIFA, a strong indication that the coaching staff had already made a firm decision ahead of the official announcement scheduled for June 1.
The expected omission has triggered divided reactions across Ghanaian football circles. While many supporters believe the team must fully embrace a new era, others insist Ayew’s leadership and tournament experience could still offer value on football’s biggest stage.
Among those advocating for his inclusion is Ghana’s Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, who recently argued that the veteran forward still possesses qualities capable of helping the squad during a demanding World Cup campaign.
He described the forward as a “player-coach type presence,” while stressing the importance of results over sentiment.
Despite those endorsements, Queiroz appears determined to reshape the Black Stars with a fresher core as Ghana prepares for its fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars have been drawn into a difficult Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama.
Ghana will open their campaign against Panama on June 17 before facing England on June 23. Their final group fixture comes against Croatia on June 27.
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Preparations for the tournament continue with friendly matches against on May 22 and on June 2 as Queiroz fine-tunes his squad and tactical setup.
Should the reports prove accurate, Ayew’s absence would signal the end of an era for one of Ghana’s most decorated internationals, a player whose national team journey has stretched across multiple World Cups and major continental tournaments.
