Black Stars coach Otto Addo has chosen to keep the rationale behind his decision to exclude captain Andre Dede Ayew from the squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic private.
The squad announcement, made on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, raised eyebrows due to Ayew’s noticeable absence. Otto Addo revealed his 26-man team for the upcoming doubleheader, with many fans and analysts surprised by the omission of the team’s skipper. This decision has sparked widespread speculation and curiosity among supporters and the media.
When asked to elaborate on why Ayew was not included, Addo refrained from providing specific details. He mentioned having an extensive discussion with Ayew about the matter but opted not to disclose the contents of their conversation. Addo emphasized that the dialogue was thorough and necessary.
Despite Ayew’s disagreement with being left out of the squad, Otto Addo continues to hold the experienced player in high regard. The coach’s respect for Ayew remains intact, even though they did not see eye-to-eye on this particular decision. This episode underscores the complexities and tough choices involved in managing a national team.
Coach Otto Addo ‘s Remarks About Dropping Andre Dede Ayew from the Ghana Black Stars Full Squad
I had a long talk with André and gave him the reasons why he is not in the squad. I talk to players directly and don’t like to disclose information about our discussions. This is the decision we took, and it’s not like he necessarily agreed, but I still have great respect for him, he remarked.
Ghana Black Stars Full Squad Released by Coach Otto Addo
Goalkeepers:
- Lawrence Ati Zigi
- Jojo Wollacott
- Frederick Asare.
Defenders:
- Gideon Mensah
- Ebenezer Annan
- Mohammed Salisu
- Jerome Opoku
- Abdul Mumin
- Alexander Djiku
- Alidu Seidu
- Tariq Lamptey
Midfielders:
- Mohammed Kudus
- Abdul Salis Samed
- Ibrahim Sulemana
- Thomas Partey
- Edmund Addo
- Elisha Owusu
- Abu Francis.
Forwards:
- Ernest Nuamah
- Osman Bukari
- Abdul Fatawu Issahaku
- Antoine Semenyo
- Jordan Ayew
- Ibrahim Osman
- Kamaldeen Sumenana
- Brandon Thomas-Asante.
