André Ayew has explained why he remained silent after his Ghana World Cup snub, saying he refused to publicly attack the country despite feeling wronged by some people within the GFA, the media and elsewhere.
The former Black Stars captain said Ghana was more important than his personal disappointment, which influenced his decision not to respond publicly after being left out of the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on the Obi One Podcast, hosted by former Nigeria international John Mikel Obi, Ayew said he believed he had a strong case for selection after returning to regular club football with Dutch side NAC Breda.
“I was playing regularly for NAC Breda, and I know some people were calling for me to be part.”
André Ayew says Ghana comes first
Ayew acknowledged that he was aware of the public discussion surrounding his omission and the calls from some supporters for his return to the Black Stars.
However, he chose not to engage in a public dispute over the decision.
“A lot of people in the GFA, media and elsewhere did me a lot of wrong. I felt it. But I did not say one word [because] I cannot spit on my country because of certain people. Ghana is more important.”
The 36-year-old said his silence was not an indication that he was unaffected by the decision. Rather, he wanted to ensure that his personal frustrations did not become bigger than his commitment to Ghana.
Ayew returned to regular club football
Ayew returned to club football in January 2026 after joining NAC Breda.
He made 16 official appearances for the Dutch club and scored once, a run that renewed calls from some Ghana supporters for him to be considered for the World Cup.
Sports Minister Kofi Adams also said in March that he would not be surprised if Ayew was recalled, although he stressed that the final decision rested with the technical team.
Carlos Queiroz leaves Ayew out of World Cup squad
Despite the renewed calls for his inclusion, new Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz ultimately left Ayew out of Ghana’s 2026 World Cup squad.
The decision ended Ayew’s hopes of making a fourth World Cup appearance after previously representing Ghana at the 2010, 2014 and 2022 tournaments.
His omission marked another major moment in the veteran midfielder’s long Black Stars career, particularly given his previous role as captain and his status as one of Ghana’s most experienced players.
‘Ghana is more important’
Despite his disappointment, Ayew said he deliberately avoided attacking individuals or publicly criticising those responsible for the decision.
His comments underline his decision to separate his personal feelings from his loyalty to the national team and the country.
For Ayew, disagreements with football officials, media personalities or other individuals were not enough reason to publicly turn against Ghana.
“Ghana is more important.”
His decision to remain silent has now been explained as a conscious choice to protect the country’s interests and avoid allowing personal grievances to overshadow his relationship with the Black Stars and Ghanaian football.
