Jordan Ayew Set for Black Stars Recall Despite Being Clubless Ahead of AFCON Qualifiers

Jordan Ayew Expected in Black Stars Squad Despite Club Uncertainty

Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew is reportedly set to be named in Ghana’s squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, despite currently being without a club.

Newly reappointed Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to announce his squad in the coming days as preparations intensify for Ghana’s opening qualifiers later this month.

The expected inclusion of Ayew has already generated discussion among football fans, given that the 34-year-old forward has been without a club since leaving Leicester City at the end of the 2025/26 season.

Experience Over Match Fitness?

According to reports, the Black Stars technical team believes Ayew’s experience, leadership qualities, and deep understanding of the national team setup outweigh concerns over his current club situation.

Ayew remains one of the most experienced players in the squad and continues to be regarded as a key figure within the dressing room.

Since making his debut for Ghana more than a decade ago, he has featured in multiple AFCON tournaments and World Cup campaigns, becoming one of the country’s most dependable players.

His leadership was particularly evident during Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup journey, where he captained the Black Stars to the knockout stages before their narrow elimination against Colombia.

Kudus Likely to Miss Out

While Ayew is expected to make the squad, reports suggest that Mohammed Kudus could be left out despite recently returning from a lengthy injury layoff.

The West Ham United star missed Ghana’s entire 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign due to injury and has only recently resumed training.

The technical team is reportedly unwilling to rush him back into competitive international football as he continues his recovery and works toward full match fitness.

Should Kudus be omitted, it would be a significant blow for the Black Stars, given his importance to Ghana’s attack in recent years.

Crucial Matches Await Ghana

Ghana’s AFCON qualifying campaign is set to begin with a difficult away fixture against Côte d’Ivoire on September 24, before welcoming The Gambia to Accra five days later.

The two matches will mark the beginning of Carlos Queiroz’s new mandate following his recent reappointment as Black Stars head coach.

After helping Ghana reach the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup, Queiroz now faces the challenge of securing qualification for AFCON 2027 and rebuilding confidence after the team’s absence from the previous tournament.

Fans Divided Over Ayew’s Inclusion

The prospect of Jordan Ayew returning to the squad has already divided opinion among supporters.

Some fans believe his experience and leadership remain invaluable, especially in difficult away matches where composure and experience often make the difference.

Others argue that national team places should be reserved for players who are actively competing at club level and maintaining match fitness.

Regardless of the debate, Ayew’s influence within the Black Stars setup remains undeniable.

Trend Ghana Poll

🇬🇭 Should Jordan Ayew be called up to the Black Stars while he is still without a club?

✅ Yes – Experience matters.

❌ No – Only active players should be selected.

👇 Share your opinion in the comments.