Jordan Ayew dismisses rift claims in Black Stars

Ghana forward Jordan Ayew has dismissed reports suggesting that there is discord among Black Stars players, insisting that they share a strong bond like brothers.

Ayew was recently named captain of the national team ahead of March’s World Cup qualifiers, having previously led the side in November’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Angola.

The 33-year-old takes over from his older brother, Andre Ayew, who previously wore the armband for Ghana.

Leadership within the Black Stars has been a major talking point in recent months, with multiple players taking turns as captain in 2024.

Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, and Jordan Ayew have all been handed the responsibility, fuelling speculation of internal tensions within the squad.

However, Jordan Ayew has refuted such claims, emphasising that any disagreements within the team are no different from those seen in any close-knit group.

“Obviously, we are both best friends because everyone is different and has who they’re closest to,” Ayew told Joy Sports.

“But just like a family, the fact that you’re closer to your sister doesn’t mean you don’t love your brother. There’s no problem or friction. We are like brothers.”

Since making his debut as a teenager in 2010, Jordan Ayew has become a key figure in the Black Stars setup, earning over 100 senior caps for Ghana.

His brother, Andre, now 35 and playing for Le Havre in France, holds the record as the country’s most-capped player, with 120 appearances.