Ghanaian veteran forward Andre Ayew, aiming to set records at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, expressed his ambition, saying, “My priority is to either start or come off the bench in the Ivory Coast.”

Eyeing the distinction of becoming the first player to score in seven editions of the tournament, Ayew, who recently joined Le Havre, also hopes to equal Rigobert Song and Ahmed Hassan’s feat of participating in eight editions.

Highlighting the importance of team success, Ayew emphasised, “After that, let us see what happens. What is most important is that Ghana do well in this competition as we had a bad 2022 Cup of Nations, going out after the first round.”

Acknowledging the challenges and criticisms he faced, Ayew’s contribution to the team was emphasised by coach Chris Hughton, who remarked, “Andre contributes a lot to the Black Stars, both on and off the field.”

Despite calls for his removal, Ayew’s consistent presence has been maintained by successive coaches, including the current incumbent. Born in France to Ghanaian legend Abedi ‘Pele’ Ayew, Andre’s football journey spans Marseille, the Premier League, Turkey, Qatar, and his recent move to Le Havre in 2023.

Reflecting on Ghana’s recent struggles, Ayew’s younger brother Jordan Ayew also contributes to the squad, which, despite setbacks, remains a contender based on its football legacy.

In their last competitive match before the Cup of Nations, Ghana faced a 1-0 defeat against the Comoros in a 2026 World Cup qualifier, adding to the team’s determination to make amends for a disappointing 2022 campaign.