Ghana coach Otto Addo has opted not to explain the decision to exclude captain Andre Ayew from the squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Angola and Niger.
Ayew’s omission, his second consecutive absence, has sparked speculation and concern.

Addo briefly addressed the situation, saying, “We did quite well with young players, and I know it will get tough. I don’t want to explain why Andre is not here.”
His refusal to offer further details has fueled ongoing debate about Ayew’s absence. Currently without a club, Ayew was also left out of the squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic.
Despite his experience, with 120 caps and 24 goals for Ghana, his continued exclusion raises questions about his future with the national team.
Addo had previously suggested that Ayew’s omission did not signify the end of his international career and that a return was still possible. However, Ayew’s persistent absence continues to cast uncertainty on his role with the team.
Ghana will host Angola on September 5, 2024, and then travel to Niger for their second Group F match on September 9, 2024.