7 talking points from Mikel Obi's interview with Dede Ayew

Former Black Stars skipper André Dede Ayew addressed several issues concerning Ghanaian football during his interview with ex-Nigerian player Mikel Obi.

The Obi One Podcast, which took place on August 23, 2026, discussed allegations, criticisms, and rumours surrounding Ayew’s career.

This article highlights the key issues that have generated talking points among fans and stakeholders in Ghanaian football.

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GFA Presidency Calls

One of the major issues heading into the interview was rumours about Ayew’s alleged ambition to contest the Ghana Football Association (GFA) presidency.

Ayew admitted he had heard the speculation but clarified that it is not his current priority.

“First of all, what the masses want is most important. I’ve heard the rumours [about people saying I should lead Ghana football], but that’s not what is important. I just want our football to grow. Not tomorrow, but now,” he said.

Otto Addo’s Dismissal

Ayew stated that Otto Addo should have been dismissed as Black Stars coach after failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and should not have led the team in the World Cup qualifiers.

“Otto Addo’s sacking should have happened long ago, especially after failing to qualify for the AFCON,” he said.

2026 World Cup Squad Omission

Ayew revealed why he remained silent regarding his exclusion from Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.

“I was playing regularly for NAC Breda, and I know some people were calling for me to be part. To be fair, some of the players who went to the World Cup didn’t have a lot of game time in the season. People said a lot of things. A lot of people in the [GFA, media, and elsewhere] did me wrong. I felt it. But I did not say one word [because] I cannot spit on my country because of certain people. Ghana is more important,” he noted.

Kudus Mohammed’s Potential

The former Black Stars captain praised Kudus Mohammed, asserting that he has the potential to play for Europe’s top clubs.

“He’s got everything to be at the top. In my opinion, he is good enough to be in clubs like Man City, Liverpool, Arsenal, etc.,” he said.

Nania FC CEO

Ayew disclosed that he has been serving as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Nania FC, the club founded by his father Abedi Pele, for some time.

“For a few years now, I’ve been CEO of [FC Nania],” he stated.

Nania currently competes in Ghana’s Division One League.

New Club for the 2026/27 Season

Ayew revealed that he plans to join a new club soon, with negotiations ongoing.

He told Mikel Obi that “two or three clubs” are currently on the table, confirming his intention to continue playing next season.

Creating Local Stars

The former Swansea City forward emphasized the need for the local league to produce indigenous stars who can represent the Black Stars, commending Benjamin Asare’s rise.

“With the departure of Salim Adams from Medeama, we need to create our next star. As we speak, Benjamin Asare is the number one,” he said.

SB/EB

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