Former Ghana Football Association vice president George Afriyie has thrown his support behind Andre Ayew, insisting the veteran forward still has much to contribute and should not be pressured into retirement.
Ayew, 36, spent the first half of the 2025/26 season without a club following his departure from Le Havre. The former Black Stars captain has since revived his career with a move to NAC Breda for the remainder of the season.
In a recent interview with ESPN, Ayew dismissed speculation about hanging up his boots, citing his physical condition and enduring passion for the game.
“I never thought about it because my body is good. I feel good,” Ayew said. “I’ve played a lot of years, and I’ve been fit for several years, able to play games upon games upon games.
“I prepare myself every time to have a better tomorrow on the field and off the field. When the moment comes, your body will tell you. That’s how I see it, and for now, my body is not responding negatively at all. So I need to continue working. The matches will get me fitter.”
Reacting to the player’s remarks on Asempa FM, Afriyie stressed that the decision to retire remains solely Ayew’s.
“Andre Ayew is still playing, and for me, nobody can force him to retire,” Afriyie stated.
Since joining NAC Breda, Ayew has made six league appearances, earning one start as he gradually works his way back to full match sharpness. He is expected to be in contention again when NAC Breda host FC Volendam at the Rat Verlegh Stadium on Saturday.
Ayew’s return to competitive football has reignited conversations about his longevity and potential role at both club and national levels, with supporters continuing to weigh his experience against Ghana’s emerging talents.