Otto Addo apologizes to Jordan Ayew amid Black Stars captaincy controversy

In a bid to mend relations, Black Stars head coach Otto Addo recently reached out to forward Jordan Ayew following tensions that arose during the national team’s last international camp.

Reports suggest that Addo traveled to Leicester last week to meet with Ayew and discuss the player’s frustrations regarding coaching decisions in recent matches.

Ace sports journalist Dan Kwaku Yeboah highlighted discrepancies in the captaincy situation during Ghana’s game against Sudan in Accra. According to Yeboah, Ayew voiced his concerns to former coach James Kwasi Appiah, stating that he was under the impression he would captain the team in the absence of Thomas Partey. However, Addo ultimately appointed Mohammed Kudus as captain without prior notification to Ayew, sparking the forward’s discontent.

Ayew’s dissatisfaction is believed to stem from several factors encountered during their last international matches, hinting at a rift in the player-coach relationship. Addo’s visit to Ayew emphasizes the critical need for open communication within the squad, especially as the Black Stars face challenges in their pursuit of qualification for upcoming tournaments.

“Jordan wasn’t happy with some things in camp during the last international [you know why], so Otto went there to speak and explain his decisions to him,” noted sports journalist Rahman Osman in a social media post. “I think they will be fine as Otto is under fire and needs Jordan badly this month.”

As scrutiny mounts over the national team’s performance and their qualification for major tournaments hangs in the balance, it is essential for Addo to reconcile with key players like Ayew. Their cooperation will be crucial as the Black Stars prepare for pivotal matches, and Ayew’s presence could significantly enhance team morale.

Looking ahead, Ghana will face Angola in Luanda before hosting Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium in their final group games of the qualifiers.