Ghana: Will the Black Stars need André Ayew at the 2026 World Cup? | OneFootball

A former indispensable?

Ghana: Will the Black Stars need André Ayew at the 2026 World Cup?

André Ayew may no longer have the same spark as in his prime, even at 36. But does his influence now go beyond mere statistics? With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the debate is on: can the Black Stars afford to leave out their legendary captain?

André Ayew has been back in action since January 2026 after six months without a club. The former Le Havre AC player surprised many by signing with NAC Breda in the Eredivisie. The veteran hasn’t had a moment’s rest, stringing together game after game. Even if he’s less visible on the pitch, his impact is anything but silent. In fact, his teammates unanimously agree that his presence changes everything.

Before his arrival, NAC had scored only 16 goals in 18 matches. Since then, the team has found the back of the net nine times in six games. Charles-Andreas Brym (2 goals), Moussa Soumano (3), and Pepijn Reulen (1) have all opened their accounts. Coincidence? Highly unlikely. “All three of us admire him. He’s played at the highest level and we watch him closely all day long,” Brym reveals. “André has played in World Cups, the Premier League. He’s a legend at Olympique de Marseille. When he speaks, we listen,” adds the Canadian international.

The former Olympique de Marseille captain acts as a mentor. Through his movement, sense of timing, and reading of the game, he brings structure to the attack. Pepijn Reulen doesn’t hide his emotion: “For André Ayew to tell me he’s proud of me is truly exceptional.” Since Ayew’s arrival, NAC have lost only two of their last seven matches. Even better: with him in the starting lineup, the club notched up two wins after eleven straight defeats. The message is clear.

A Black Stars legend

For the Black Stars, Ayew is no ordinary player. He’s a living memory. Having played at the 2010, 2014, and 2022 World Cups, he’s netted three goals in the tournament’s final stages. He ranks among Ghana’s top World Cup scorers, just behind former striker Asamoah Gyan.

His experience in major competitions, natural leadership, and presence in the dressing room are rare assets. At a time when Ghana is looking to rebuild a generation capable of competing on the world stage, can they really do without such a guide?

Physical decline or strategic maturity?

André Ayew is experiencing an athletic decline. He often starts on the bench at Breda. He no longer has the explosiveness of his Premier League days. But in a tournament like the World Cup, mental resilience and emotional control matter as much as fresh legs.

His psychological impact at NAC could translate to the Ghana squad. He may not be a starter, but he’ll play the role of stabilizer, a coach’s lieutenant, and a big brother in a young dressing room. The 2026 World Cup could be André Ayew’s final grand stage. Taking him would be a bet on experience.