Former Ghana national football team midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu says the inclusion of Andre Ayew in Ghana’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will ultimately depend on the decision of the team’s head coach.

The conversation around Ayew’s possible return to the national team has intensified after the forward scored on his debut for his new club over the weekend, with the World Cup now less than three months away.

Speaking exclusively to Citi  Sports, Agyemang-Badu who was his teammate during the U-20 World Cup winning trophy in 2009 acknowledged the former Black Stars captain’s experience and current form but stressed that squad selection will depend on the coach’s tactical philosophy and preferred style of play.

Ghana’s Andre Ayew (R) celebrates his goal against Senegal with his team mater Emmanuel Badu Agyemang (L) during the 2015 African Cup of Nations Group C soccer match between Senegal and Ghana at Mongomo Stadium in Mongomo on January 19, 2015. (Photo by Mohamed Hossam/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

Normally it depends on the coach, his philosophy, his ideas and the kind of players he needs for the World Cup,” Agyemang-Badu said.
“Andre is doing very well, he’s playing well and scoring goals. If the coach thinks his philosophy and game plan require him, then he merits a place in the team.”

The former midfielder noted that Ayew remains focused on his club football but would be ready to serve the national team if called upon.

Andre Ayew #10 of Ghana celebrates with team mate Mohammed Kudus #20 after scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group H match between Portugal and Ghana at Stadium 974 on November 24, 2022 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Cui Nan/China News Service via Getty Images)

    “He hasn’t stopped playing football. What I know about him is that he’s concentrated on his club football, but if there is an opportunity for him to help the nation, he will be willing to come,” he added.

Agyemang-Badu also admitted that the final squad list will inevitably generate debate among fans and pundits, but emphasised that the coach’s judgment should be respected.

    When the list comes out we will all scrutinise it and support the team. But at the end of the day the coach knows the kind of players he wants to go with

Ghana is expected to announce its squad after May as preparations intensify for the 2026 World Cup, which is now less than 92 days away.