World Cup 2026: Andre Ayew's international future ended after omission

Andre Ayew's hopes of becoming the first Ghanaian to play at four FIFA World Cups fizzled into thin air after new coach Carlos Queiroz failed to name him in his final squad. 

The 36-year-old, holder of Ghana's most appearances for the Black Stars, looked to be making his way back into the national team after a decent cameo in Holland with NAC Breda, a club he joined in February 2026. Ayew made 17 appearances and scored one league goal but it was not enough as NAC suffered demotion.

However, his performances in the Dutch Eredivisie divided opinions in the West African nation, with many calling his inclusion due to his enormous experience.

But coach Queiroz had other options despite losing some experienced members of his squad, including a late setback following the injury to Aleaxnder Djiku.

Ayew's brother Jordan, will lead the Black Stars in North America, and will now equal his senior brother's third World Cup record.

Andre remains the second Ghanaian with the most goals at the World Cup, scoring three times, with only Asamoah Gyan having more.

The former Swansea cult hero first represented the Black Stars at the World Cup in 2010, as Ghana reached a historic quarter-final berth.

He also travelled with the team to the tournament in Brazil, where he scored twice as the Black Stars were eliminated at the group stage.

In Qatar, four years ago, Ayew scored Ghana's first goal at the World Cup but missed a crucial penalty as the Black Stars exited the tournament again at the group stage.

His latest omission could mean an end to a glittering Black Stars career.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars will continue preparations for the World Cup with a friendly against Wales on Tuesday in Cardiff.

The team will also engage Jamaica in a final preparatory game before the World Cup begins on Jun 11 in USA, Mexico and Canada.

Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside 1966 winners England, 2018 runners-up Croatia and Central Americans Panama.

Below is the full squad:

GOALKEEPERS: Benjamin Asare, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Joseph Anang

DEFENDERS: Derrick Luckassen, Abdul Mumin, Jonas Adjetey, Gideon Mensah, Baba Rahman, Alidu Seidu, Kojo Peprah Oppong, Jerome Opoku, Marvin Senaya

MIDFIELDERS: Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo, Elisha Owusu, Caleb Yirenkyi, Augustine Boakye

ATTACKERS: Jordan Ayew, Inaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo, Fatawu Issahaku, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Prince Adu Kwabena, Ernest Nuamah, Christopher Bonsu Baah, Brandon Thomas-Asante