Agyemang-Badu Calls for Respectful Exit for Andre Ayew Amid Retirement Talks
Former Ghana international Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has called for a dignified departure for Black Stars captain Andre Ayew as discussions about his future with the national team intensify.
Ayew, who made his senior debut in 2007, has been absent from the Black Stars squad since March 2024, despite an impressive run of form with French Ligue 1 side Le Havre. The 35-year-old has been in fine scoring form this season, netting four goals and registering an assist.
With head coach Otto Addo set to name a new Black Stars captain, reports suggest that Jordan Ayew is likely to take over the armband, further fueling speculation that Andre may not be selected for Ghana’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar.
Speaking on Sporty FM’s Drive Show, Agyemang-Badu emphasized that the decision to continue or retire should be left to Ayew himself.
“André knows his body more than I do. If he feels good, is performing well for his club, and the coach wants him, fine. The decision to continue or stop should be his. I just don’t want anyone to leave the national team with bitterness,” Agyemang-Badu stated.
As Ghana’s most capped player with over 120 international appearances, Ayew has been a key figure in multiple Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments and World Cup campaigns.
