Former Ghana national football team assistant coach Ignatius Osei-Fosu has questioned whether Andre Ayew should return to the Black Stars as discussions continue over the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking in an interview on Luv FM, Osei-Fosu said the team may need to move forward with a new generation of players.
“He might be a very good player, but you ask yourself in this current setup, is he needed?” he said.
Osei-Fosu added that although he respects Ayew’s contributions to Ghanaian football, the time may have come for the veteran forward to step aside and focus on club football.
“Dede is my man, but for me you leave when the applause is high,” he said.
His comments come after the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, said he would not be surprised if Ayew is included in Ghana’s squad for the tournament.
The 34-year-old forward currently plays for NAC Breda after joining the Dutch club in January following nearly a year as a free agent.
Ayew remains one of Ghana’s most decorated footballers and has represented the Black Stars at four World Cups. However, Osei-Fosu believes national team selections should focus on the team’s present needs rather than past achievements.
He cited the example of Francesco Totti, who stepped away from the Italy national football team to concentrate on club football.
According to Osei-Fosu, leaving the national team at the right time can help preserve a player’s legacy.
