Sports Minister Kofi Adams distances himself from Andre Ayew World Cup snub debate

Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams says he is unable to explain Andre Ayew's omission from Ghana's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the decision rests solely with head coach Carlos Queiroz.

Ayew's absence from the Black Stars setup has emerged as one of the biggest talking points ahead of the tournament, with supporters divided over the exclusion of the experienced forward.

Speaking on TV3, Adams revealed that he has not discussed the matter with Queiroz and intends to wait until after the World Cup before seeking an explanation.

"I don't know why Dede Ayew wasn't selected. I've not spoken to the coach about it yet. As a minister, I had my wishes and persons I would have loved to be in there, but if they're not there, let us leave it at that. We'll have a conversation after the World Cup," he said.

The minister's comments come amid growing public discussion over the squad composition after Ayew failed to make the provisional 28-man squad currently preparing in Cardiff.

Despite the debate, Adams made it clear that he has no reason to believe external influences played a role in the coach's decisions.

"I have no evidence that the GFA influenced the coach in selection of the players," he said.

The former captain has not featured for Ghana in more than three years, but his omission has continued to attract attention because of his status as one of the country's most accomplished footballers.

With Ayew absent, along with injured Mohammed Kudus and Joseph Paintsil, Ghana are expected to place greater attacking responsibility on Antoine Semenyo and other members of the current squad.

Adams said it will now be up to Queiroz to justify his selections on the pitch when the World Cup gets underway.

"It is Carlos Queiroz's responsibility to get the best out of Semenyo amid the omission of some star players," he added.

Ghana are set to announce their final 26-man squad from the current 28-player camp on June 1 before departing for the tournament.

The Black Stars will begin their Group L campaign against Panama in Toronto on June 17 before taking on England and Croatia.