Ghana’s national team, the Black Stars, has a new leader, and it’s a familiar name—Jordan Ayew. The 32-year-old forward was officially appointed captain by head coach Otto Addo, making him the third member of the Ayew family, after his father Abedi Pele and older brother André Ayew, to wear the armband.
In his first exclusive interview since receiving the role, Ayew spoke to Joy Sports, sharing his thoughts on the appointment, the legacy of his predecessors, and his hopes for the team.
A Role He Was Destined For
For many Ghanaian football fans, Jordan Ayew taking up the captaincy was only a matter of time. Despite this, the Leicester city striker insists that he never actively sought the leadership role.
“I’m not someone who thinks about being captain or about leadership roles,” Ayew said. “I just want to enjoy playing football, winning games, scoring goals, and making people happy. There was a lot of talk, but I was always quiet in my corner. I don’t focus on those things. It just happened naturally.”
His calm approach to leadership echoes that of his brother, André, who captained the Black Stars for several years before passing the torch.
Learning From the Best
Jordan Ayew has played alongside some of Ghana’s greatest captains, including Asamoah Gyan and André Ayew. He credits them with shaping his leadership stylej.
“I’ve learned from the best—whether it’s Asamoah Gyan or André Ayew. I’ll try and pick up things from their qualities. I’ll keep taking advice and applying what has made me grow into who I am today,” he said.
His bond with his brother remains strong, and he revealed that both André Ayew and Asamoah Gyan have already shared words of encouragement.
“André and I are very close—he congratulated me and gave me some advice. Asamoah [Gyan] as well.”
Leading the Black Stars into a New Era
Jordan Ayew’s first test as captain comes this Friday, as Ghana faces Chad in a FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium. The match will mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Black Stars under his leadership.
While some fans remain divided over his appointment, Ayew is determined to focus on what matters most—delivering results on the pitch.
With his experience, humility, and strong family legacy, Jordan Ayew is now ready to lead Ghana into battle, carrying the hopes of a football-loving nation on his shoulders.
