Ghana international Andre Ayew has revealed that his decision to join Dutch side NAC Breda was driven by his desire to continue competing at the highest level of professional football.
The 36-year-old forward signed for the Eredivisie club during the January transfer window on a short-term deal that runs until the end of the season. Prior to the move, Ayew had been training individually after becoming a free agent following his departure from Le Havre AC.
Ayew’s contract with the French Ligue 1 side expired at the end of last season. During his time at Le Havre, he made 27 league appearances, scoring four goals and providing one assist. His experience and leadership were seen as valuable assets during his two-year stint in France.
Speaking in an interview with ESPN, the former Ghana captain explained that his move to the Dutch Eredivisie was about embracing a new challenge and proving himself once again.
“I am a footballer, and I always want to play at the highest level. The Dutch league is a very good league, technically, physically,” Ayew said.
He added that he was motivated by the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a team that believes in him. “I was looking at challenging myself again, like I did in Le Havre the last two years, where I could bring something to the table and where the belief is mutual from both sides,” he explained.
Ayew also highlighted the importance of feeling wanted by a club, noting that the ambitions of NAC Breda played a key role in his decision.
“The club has big objectives for now and the future, and for me, it was important to feel the desire from the club, from the coach, which was very important and the fan base,” he stated.
Known for his energy and passion on the pitch, Ayew emphasised the impact of strong fan support on his performance. “I am a player who plays a lot with energy, and the fans behind me, so when you are in a club where you have a good fan base and a stadium that makes noise, it’s better for me,” he added.
Since joining NAC Breda, Ayew has made six league appearances, starting one of those matches. While he continues to work his way into the starting lineup, his experience and leadership are expected to be crucial as the club pushes toward its seasonal objectives.
For Ayew, the move represents not just another chapter in an illustrious career, but a renewed commitment to competing at the highest possible standard despite advancing age.
