Thomas Partey takes over as Black Stars captain after Dede Ayew's exclusion

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey will lead the Black Stars in the games against Mali and the Central African Republic in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

This was disclosed by Black Stars coach Otto Addo at a press conference on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, during which he confirmed the exclusion of substantive captain Andre Ayew for the two matches.

Otto Addo, who did not rule out a future return for Dede Ayew, explained that Thomas Partey, who is the deputy skipper, will be the leader of the playing body for the two matches.

He disclosed that the return of the Arsenal midfielder is good news for the Black Stars, who are aiming for a fifth qualification to the World Cup.

The Black Stars are scheduled to face Mali in Bamako on June 6, followed by a match against the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on June 10.

The Black Stars are currently fourth in Group I with three points from their opening two games.

EK