Otto Addo Defends His Decision in Dropping Andre Ayew, Says They were Tactical Choices

Ghana coach Otto Addo has justified his choice not to summon captain Andre Ayew for the recent 2026 World Cup qualifying matches, underscoring that his selections are always guided by the team’s welfare.

Despite being in excellent form, Ayew was omitted as Ghana secured crucial victories over Mali and Central African Republic, rejuvenating their World Cup qualification hopes following an initial win and defeat against Madagascar and Comoros.

Ayew’s absence has continued to ignite discussion, despite the team’s commendable performance without him. Addo has fielded numerous inquiries about Ayew’s potential comeback, which he views as typical given Ayew’s stature in Ghanaian football.

“I think it’s a normal question. He’s a player. I said it before. I mean, he’s a legend, living legend,” Addo praised Ayew in an interview with 3Sports. “He has done so much for the nation. He sacrificed so much for the nation. Good guy, with good character. I mean, he represents Ghana these days like no one has. But, surely, as a coach, I have to think and I have to think about the Ghana national team, what’s best for the Ghana national team,” he said

Addo elaborated on his decision-making process, mentioning that he had a confidential conversation with Ayew before reaching his decision.

“And I had a good conversation with him, and I took my decision. And, I said it before, it won’t be fair to talk about something about the content in public. And this is a private conversation, and I want to keep it as us. But like I said, I take my decision, and, in the end, always for the best of the nation and also for the team.”