This is why Otto Addo has chosen Jordan Ayew as the new Black Stars captain

Leicester City forward Jordan Ayew has been appointed captain of the Black Stars for Ghana’s upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifiers against Angola and Niger, a decision announced by head coach Otto Addo on Thursday.

Ayew’s captaincy marks a shift in leadership as Ghana aims to secure vital points in the journey towards qualification for the tournament.

The move follows Thomas Partey’s absence from the squad, with Addo explaining the rationale behind selecting Ayew as captain at a press conference at the Ghana Football Association headquarters.

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“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 Jordan the captain in Thomas’ absence,” Addo said.

Ayew’s appointment appears to signal a long-term change in the leadership structure. Otto Addo indicated that the decision could extend beyond Partey’s absence, suggesting Ayew will play a central role in leading the team moving forward. “Jordan will take over now, from now and he will lead and guide the team,” Addo stated.

The coach also disclosed that he had meaningful discussions with West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus, who captained Ghana in the previous double-header against Sudan. Addo explained that Kudus will serve as Ayew’s deputy, alongside defender Alexander Djiku, allowing the young star time to mature into a leadership role.

“I talked to Kudus for him to understand that I want him to grow into the role and be the second captain alongside Djiku,” Addo noted.

Ghana’s Black Stars face a critical week ahead, with matches against Angola in Luanda on 15 November, followed by a clash with Niger on 18 November in Accra. With Ayew now at the helm, Addo hopes the leadership changes will inspire a cohesive performance as the team fights to advance in the AFCON qualifiers.

The shift in leadership also reflects Addo’s confidence in Ayew’s experience and maturity to guide a squad featuring both seasoned players and rising talents.

As Ghana prepares for two high-stakes matches, Ayew’s captaincy ushers in a new chapter in the team’s leadership, underscoring Addo’s strategy to balance stability with future growth.

The Leicester man has scored three times since joining The Foxes from Crystal Palace.