Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has expressed confidence in Ghana’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup, praising the impact of new head coach Carlos Queiroz as the team gears up for its pre-tournament friendly against Wales on Tuesday.
The experienced forward, who will captain Ghana at a major tournament for the first time since succeeding his brother Andre Ayew as skipper, believes the squad is quickly adapting to the manager’s ideas despite having limited time together.
Speaking to the media in Wales on the eve of the friendly match, Ayew revealed that training sessions have been productive and the players have “embraced the new direction” being introduced by Queiroz.
According to the 34-year-old, the commitment shown by the players has been impressive and the squad is focused on “delivering a strong performance against Wales” before shifting attention to the World Cup.
Growing Believe Under New Leadership
Ayew acknowledged that Ghana is entering a new chapter following recent disappointing results, but insisted there are already encouraging signs under the new technical team.
The Black Stars have lost their last four matches since October, but the captain believes some of those defeats did not accurately reflect the team’s performances.
He pointed to the display against Germany as one that offered positives despite the result and suggested that the heavy defeat to Austria was harsher than the game deserved.
Rather than dwelling on the past, Ayew urged Ghanaians to remain patient and support the players, coaching staff and the rebuilding process.
He stressed that the focus is now on “moving forward, starting with the clash against Wales and continuing into Ghana’s World Cup campaign.”
The former Swansea City star also highlighted the blend of experienced players and newcomers in the squad, saying the team’s objective is to keep improving while proudly representing both Ghana and Africa on the tournament in the US, Canada and Mexico.
Jordan Ayew believes the combination of the players’ dedication and the manager’s vast experience could help Ghana exceed “expectations” during the tournament.
Focus on Ghana Despite Uncertain Club Future
Away from international football, Ayew recently became a free agent following his departure from Leicester City. However, he revealed that his club future is not currently a priority.
The forward explained that his full concentration is on the national team and the upcoming World Cup, adding that decisions regarding his next club will be made later in consultation with his family and representatives. For now, his goal is to enjoy the tournament, support his teammates and help Ghana achieve success.
Ayew also reserved praise for fellow Black Stars forward Antoine Semenyo, who enjoyed an impressive Premier League campaign with Bournemouth before switching to Manchester City in January.
He described Semenyo’s performances as “outstanding” and said Ghanaians have every reason to be proud of the striker’s development.
The captain added that continued strong displays from Semenyo, combined with collective team performances, will be crucial to Ghana’s ambitions.
Returning to Wales has also brought back fond memories for Ayew, who enjoyed a successful spell at Swansea City earlier in his career. He admitted it was special to reconnect with old friends and revisit a place that played an important role in both his football journey and personal life.
Chasing National History
With 117 appearances for Ghana since making his debut in 2010, Ayew ranks second among the country’s most-capped players behind his brother Andre Ayew who has 120 caps. He needs just three more appearances to equal that feat and another to become the most capped Ghana international player in history.
He has contributed 33 goals and 20 assists for the Black Stars and now faces the challenge of leading the national team at a major tournament for the first time as captain.
The former Marseille player will also be making his third World Cup finals appearance after playing at the 2014 edition in Brazil and 2022 in Qatar.
As Ghana continues its final preparations, Ayew remains optimistic that the Black Stars can build momentum, deliver strong performances and make the nation proud when the World Cup begins.
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