Jordan Ayew admits pressure of following in father’s footsteps

Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has reflected on the challenges of being the son of Ghanaian and African football icon Abedi Pele, acknowledging the weight of expectations that come with such a legacy.

Abedi Pele, a three-time African Footballer of the Year from 1991 to 1993, remains one of the most decorated players in Ghana’s history.

He was instrumental in Ghana’s last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph in 1982 and led the team to a runners-up finish in 1992.

His legendary status was further cemented with his role in Olympique Marseille’s 1993 UEFA Champions League victory.

Jordan, now 33 and captaining the national team, admits that living up to that legacy has been no small feat.

“My dad has done a lot, not just for me, but for the whole family,” he told Leicester City’s website.

“It’s not easy to come after your father when expectations are so high, both in Ghana and in Europe.”

While Abedi’s sons, including Andre and Ibrahim Ayew, have carved out respectable careers, they have yet to match their father’s international achievements.

The closest the Ayew brothers have come to a major trophy with Ghana were AFCON final appearances in 2010 and 2015.

Individually, Andre’s runner-up finishes in the African Player of the Year award in 2011 and 2015 remain highlights.

Currently playing for Leicester City, who are battling relegation with seven games left in the season, Jordan is focused on helping the club retain its Premier League status while continuing to carry the weight of a proud family name.