L-R Gyan, Muntari, Paintsil and Wakaso were dropped from the Black Stars after less playing time
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the debate around André Dede Ayew has resurfaced. The former Black Stars captain is currently without a club, yet some football administrators are calling for his return to the national team.
However, history shows that Ghana has consistently been ruthless when selecting players for major tournaments, regardless of their past achievements.
From the mid-2000s to the early 2010s, several Black Stars legends were dropped on the eve of major competitions due to a lack of clubs, fitness issues, or simply being past their best.
Asamoah Gyan
Ghana’s record goal scorer and one of the Black Stars’ most celebrated players eventually stopped featuring in tournament squads as his career progressed.
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By the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations cycle, Gyan was no longer regularly selected, largely due to declining club involvement and form.
Though he never formally retired until 2023, his absence reflected the same principle: performance and active football dictate selection.
John Paintsil
Once one of Ghana’s most reliable defenders, John Paintsil lost his place in the national team when he became clubless around 2013–2014.
Despite his experience at two World Cups, he was left out of tournament squads because he wasn’t playing competitive football.
It became a clear precedent: without a club, you risk losing your Black Stars spot.
Sulley Muntari
Sulley Muntari’s quality and fame couldn’t save him when his club career slowed down.
His lack of regular football and sometimes disciplinary issues meant he was overlooked for major tournaments.
Ghana’s coaches prioritised players with better rhythm and fitness, even if they lacked Muntari’s pedigree.
Mubarak Wakaso
Wakaso’s commitment and intensity made him a fan favourite, but extended periods of inactivity and injury struggles eventually cost him his place.
Ahead of key tournaments, he was dropped because he wasn’t playing consistently at club level. He has been out of the team since 2023, after failing to secure a club after his exploits with Shenzhen.
Michael Essien and John Mensah
Even global icons like Essien and former captain John Mensah faced the same fate.
When injuries mounted and club opportunities dried up, they were left out of tournament squads. Their reputations alone weren’t enough to earn selection.
What this means today
These cases highlight a long-standing reality: Ghana has never hesitated to drop big names who lacked clubs, match fitness, or consistent form, no matter their legacy.
It is against this backdrop that the current debate around Dede Ayew sits. Some fans want him back.
Critics insist Ghana must stick to the same principle that sidelined Gyan, Paintsil, Muntari, Wakaso and others.
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