Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has rejected suggestions that his long-standing place in Ghana’s national team is a result of his family name, insisting that his achievements with the Black Stars have been earned through hard work and consistent performances.
The 34-year-old forward, who made his senior debut for Ghana in September 2010, has remained a key figure for the national team for more than a decade. Despite his longevity and contributions, Ayew has often faced criticism from sections of the Ghanaian football public over his displays in national colours.
Speaking in an interview with GFA Media, the former Leicester City attacker addressed claims that his inclusion in the team is linked to his father, Ghana legend Abedi Pele, and other influential family connections.
“When people say that [my father is the reason I’m there], it makes me laugh because for me it’s even harder,” Ayew said.
“You always have that perception that it’s because of his father, because of his uncle…At the end of the day, you can say all that, but football doesn’t lie on the grass.”
Ayew acknowledged that criticism is part of professional football but stressed the importance of maintaining confidence and focus despite external pressure.
“We are allowed to criticise but at the end of the you need to keep a your head straight and do what you do best and have self belief beacuse it’s not easy.
“You just need to know how to deal with those moments and to have thick skin because football is not easy,” he added.
The experienced forward is expected to play a crucial role as Ghana prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. The Black Stars, who will be making their fifth appearance at the global showpiece, have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.
Otto Addo’s side has already arrived in the United States to continue preparations ahead of the tournament. Ghana will begin their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field before taking on England at Gillette Stadium on June 23. Their final group-stage fixture will be against Croatia on June 27.
The Black Stars will conclude their preparations with a final friendly match against Jamaica on June 10 before turning their full attention to the World Cup challenge.
