Ghana captain Jordan Ayew has withdrawn from the Black Stars squad after a medical scan confirmed a knee problem ahead of the team’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Ayew joined his Black Stars teammates in Accra as Ghana began preparations for two important qualifying matches against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia.
However, the Leicester City forward reportedly complained of discomfort in his knee after arriving in camp and subsequently underwent medical examinations. The scan revealed an injury that is expected to rule him out of the upcoming matches.
Ayew has reportedly discussed the situation with head coach Carlos Queiroz, with the captain expected to leave camp and begin his recovery.
His withdrawal represents another injury setback for the Black Stars as the team prepares for the start of the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
Ghana are scheduled to travel to Côte d’Ivoire for their opening qualifier on September 24, before hosting The Gambia in Accra five days later. The Black Stars will then face Morocco in a friendly as part of their international programme.
Ayew’s absence will deprive Queiroz of one of the most experienced members of the national team. The forward has been a regular figure for Ghana for more than a decade and has played a prominent role for the Black Stars in major international competitions.
The latest development also comes amid other injury concerns within the squad. Several players have reportedly become unavailable to the technical team, increasing the challenges facing Queiroz as he prepares for the qualifiers.
The coach will now have to adjust his plans for the matches against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia without the national team captain.
Ayew’s withdrawal also raises questions about his recovery timeline, although the severity of the knee problem has not been fully disclosed. Ghana will hope that the injury does not keep the experienced forward out for an extended period.
The Black Stars are beginning a new AFCON qualifying campaign following their participation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With qualification for the 2027 tournament now the immediate objective, Queiroz will be expected to make the necessary adjustments ahead of the opening fixture.
For Ayew, attention will now turn to his recovery as he works towards returning to club and international football.
Source: Thepressradio.com
