Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has distanced himself from growing calls for the recall of Andre Ayew to the Ghana national football team, insisting that selection decisions rest entirely with the technical team.
Ayew, who has been absent from the national side since Ghana’s disappointing group-stage exit at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, remains a subject of intense debate among supporters and pundits alike. His omission has been further scrutinised following his return to club football in Europe.
The 36-year-old forward recently signed for NAC Breda after a six-month period without a club, having parted ways with Le Havre AC. The move has reignited discussions over whether the former captain could yet play a role in Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking exclusively to SportsnetghTv Hon. Adams acknowledged the public interest but stressed that he would not interfere in team selection.
“Fortunately, I am the minister; unfortunately, I am not the coach. The coach has the final say. If they decide to include him, why not? I would not be surprised,” he remarked.
Ayew was notably absent from Ghana’s squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Austria and Germany, a decision that has only intensified debate over his standing within the team.
Since joining NAC Breda as a free agent, Ayew has made 11 appearances, scoring once. While his recent form may appear modest, a section of the Ghanaian fanbase continues to advocate for his return, pointing to his wealth of experience, leadership qualities, and enduring influence in the dressing room.
As Ghana’s most capped player, Ayew’s legacy with the Black Stars is firmly established. Over more than a decade, he has been a central figure in multiple AFCON campaigns and has represented the nation on football’s grandest stage at the World Cup.
With the tournament on the horizon, the question of his possible return remains open—but, as the minister has made clear, the final decision lies with the men on the touchline.