Andre Ayew left out of Ghana’s 2026 World Cup Squad
Former Ghana captain Andre Ayew has been omitted from the Black Stars’ final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing an apparent end to his hopes of appearing at a fourth global showpiece.
The 36-year-old forward, Ghana’s most-capped player, had been seeking a return to the national team after remaining out of the Black Stars setup since the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
Despite renewed speculation over a possible recall, head coach Carlos Queiroz has opted against including the veteran attacker in his 26-man squad for the tournament, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Ayew had hoped to conclude his distinguished international career on football’s biggest stage, having previously represented Ghana at the 2010, 2014 and 2022 World Cups.
His exclusion marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Ghanaian football. Over a career spanning nearly two decades, Ayew became one of the country’s most influential players, captaining the Black Stars and playing a central role in several major tournaments.
The former captain scored three goals across his World Cup appearances and had been aiming to close the gap on Ghana’s all-time World Cup leading scorer, Asamoah Gyan, who found the net six times in three tournaments.
Although no longer involved with the national side, Ayew enjoyed a respectable season with Dutch club NAC Breda, making 17 appearances and scoring once. His experience, leadership and pedigree had fuelled expectations that he could earn a place in the squad as Ghana prepared for the expanded 48-team tournament.
However, Queiroz has instead placed his faith in a blend of established internationals and emerging talent as Ghana targets a strong campaign in North America.
While Andre Ayew’s World Cup story appears to have reached its conclusion, the Ayew name will still feature on the grand stage.
His younger brother, Jordan Ayew, who now captains the Black Stars, has been named in the squad and is expected to play a pivotal role in Ghana’s quest to advance beyond the group stage.
The squad also includes key figures such as Thomas Partey, Inaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo, Ernest Nuamah and Fatawu Issahaku, reflecting Ghana’s ambition to make a significant impact at the tournament.
Ghana’s Squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Goalkeepers: Benjamin Asare, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Joseph Anang.
Defenders: Derrick Luckassen, Abdul Mumin, Jonas Adjetey, Gideon Mensah, Baba Rahman, Alidu Seidu, Kojo Peprah Oppong, Jerome Opoku, Marvin Senaya.
Midfielders: Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo, Elisha Owusu, Caleb Yirenkyi, Augustine Boakye.
Forwards: Jordan Ayew, Inaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo, Fatawu Issahaku, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Prince Adu Kwabena, Ernest Nuamah, Christopher Bonsu Baah, Brandon Thomas-Asante.
Ghana will be hoping the new generation can deliver success on the world stage as the Black Stars prepare for another chapter in their World Cup history.
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