Otto Addo names squad for AFCON 2025 qualifiers without Thomas Partey, appoints Jordan Ayew as new captain

Nov 7, 2024 - 16:28

Nov 7, 2024 - 16:35

Otto Addo names squad for AFCON 2025 qualifiers without Thomas Partey, appoints Jordan Ayew as new captain

Accra, Ghana - November 7, 2024 - Ghana's Black Stars head coach, Otto Addo, has announced his 23-man squad for the final Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers against Angola and Niger with midfielder Thomas Teye Partey excluded.

At a press conference on Thursday Nov 7, 2024, Addo shed light on his decision to exclude the with Arsenal star from the squad. Addo cited private conversations with Partey as the reason for his exclusion, emphasizing his commitment to protecting the player.

''I had a confidential talk with Thomas. Like you know, I'm a coach who always likes to protect the players, so I hope for your understanding. For me, the team is like family, and I’m not coming out with internal issues.''

''First, he wanted to come, but I made it clear why he's not coming. Like I said, it’s confidential, and it’s difficult for me to mention all the details. It’s like that, and we have to move on,'' he added.

New Captain Announced

Partey's absence has led to adjustments in the team's leadership structure. Initially slated to be captain, Addo instead has appointed Jordan Ayew to lead the team. Ayew, Leicester City striker, will captain the Black Stars for the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. Addo hinted that this change may be long-term.

Midfielder Mohammed Kudus and defender Alexander Djiku will assist Ayew in leadership roles.

‘The initiative was to make Thomas the captain to guide the team. But once he is not there, I had to speak to Kudus and I made the decision to make him the captain in Thomas’ absence.’’ Otto Addo told journalists at the Ghana Football Association’s secretariat.

‘‘I have decided to pick a new captain for the team which will be Jordan. So I talked to Kudus for him to understand that I will want him to grow into the role and be the second captain alongside Djiku.’’

‘‘Jordan will take over now, from now and he will lead and guide the team.’’