Byline: A Former Teammate Reflects on Ayew’s Declining Role in Ghana’s National Team

Andre Ayew’s exclusion from the Ghana national team has sparked discussions in the football world, with West Ham’s Michail Antonio offering his perspective on the situation. Antonio, who once shared the pitch with Ayew at West Ham, shed light on the reality of aging as a footballer and how it impacts both club and international careers.

Speaking about Ayew’s absence since March 2024, Antonio explained that such decisions are inevitable in football. “He’s getting a bit older now, obviously, and new boys are coming in. It’s normal—it happens to all footballers. You get through the older players and try to bring in someone new.”

Antonio drew parallels with his own journey at West Ham, where the club routinely seeks younger talents to take his spot. Yet, he continues to defy the odds. “Every year, they try to replace me with young players, but obviously, I’m still here,” Antonio said. “At the end of the day, players get older, and they look for something new. Some things you could do when you were younger, you probably can’t do them now.”

Andre Ayew, who is now 34, was once a vital player for the Black Stars and enjoyed a successful stint with West Ham from 2016 to 2018, recording nine league goals in over 40 appearances. However, his absence from Ghana’s squad reflects head coach Otto Addo’s push for rejuvenation within the team. Addo previously stated that he discussed the decision with Ayew directly, emphasizing the team’s focus on a new generation of players.

Antonio’s words resonate as a candid reflection on the challenges of longevity in football. While Ayew’s storied career is far from forgotten, it seems the Black Stars are moving toward a future led by younger talents.