Fiifi Tackie, spokesperson for the Ayew family, has strongly criticized Black Stars head coach Otto Addo following his comments about Andre Ayew’s exclusion from Ghana’s squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Despite Ayew’s impressive performances for Le Havre in France’s Ligue 1, the 35-year-old was omitted from the team for Matchday 5 and 6 fixtures. When questioned about his decision, Addo stated, “If we need Andre Ayew, we will call him. At the moment, I see others ahead of him.”
Tackie, in a sharp rebuttal on social media, slammed Addo’s remarks as disrespectful, especially coming from a coach who failed to secure Ghana’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“Coach Otto Addo’s comments on Andre Ayew are shocking and disappointing,” Tackie wrote. “He has repeatedly stated that active club participation is a key criterion for national team selection. So how can Ayew—Ghana’s most-capped player, a three-time World Cup veteran, and a proven leader—be overlooked while excelling in one of Europe’s top leagues?”
He further emphasized Ayew’s contributions, stating, “Ayew’s legacy and commitment to the Black Stars are unquestionable. His experience, leadership, and performances in major tournaments speak for themselves. It’s baffling that a coach who couldn’t even qualify Ghana for AFCON would casually dismiss a player who has consistently delivered for his country and remains active at a high level.”
Tackie concluded by condemning Addo’s remarks as “unprofessional and unbecoming of a national team coach,” adding that they “disrespect Ayew’s sacrifices and the pride he has brought to Ghanaian football.”
Ayew, who last featured for Ghana in a 2-2 friendly draw against Uganda in March, holds 120 caps and 24 goals for the Black Stars since his debut in 2007.
