Otto Addo defends decision to appoint Jordan Ayew as Black Stars captain
Ghana’s forward #9 Jordan Ayew celebrates scoring his team’s first goal from the penalty spot during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2024 group B football match between Mozambique and Ghana at Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium in Ebimpe, Abidjan on January 22, 2024. (Photo by Issouf SANOGO / AFP) (Photo by ISSOUF SANOGO/AFP via Getty Images)Ghana coach Otto Addo has explained his decision to appoint Jordan Ayew as the new captain of the Black Stars ahead of their upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifiers.This change comes after a period of underwhelming performances under the captaincy of Mohammed Kudus, including a 0-0 draw against the Central African Republic in Accra and a 2-0 defeat to Sudan in Libya.Explaining his choice, Addo said, “I have decided to appoint a new captain, which will be Jordan. I spoke to Kudus to help him understand that I want him to grow into this role and serve as the second captain alongside Djiku. He added, “Jordan will take over from now, and he will lead and guide the team.”While Kudus remains an essential player for Ghana, Addo believes Ayews experience and leadership can help drive the team forward as they strive to qualify for the AFCON tournament.The Black Stars will travel to Luanda to face Angola on November 15, followed by a match against Niger in Accra three days later. Ghana currently stands third in Group F, with two points from four games.
