Jordan Ayew Withdraws from Black Stars Squad as Knee Scan Confirms Injury

Ghana’s preparation for their crucial upcoming international fixtures has suffered a major setback following the sudden departure of team captain Jordan Ayew.

Just 48 hours before the highly anticipated showdown against Ivory Coast, the veteran forward was forced to exit the Black Stars camp due to a medical issue.

The 35-year-old Black Stars captain arrived in Accra on Monday, September 21, 2026, to link up with his national teammates ahead of international duties.

However, during initial preparations, Ayew experienced discomfort in his knee. Medical staff promptly arranged a scan on Tuesday, September 22, which confirmed an underlying knee injury significant enough to prevent him from participating in upcoming matches.

Following the diagnostic results, Ayew engaged in direct discussions with head coach Carlos Queiroz and was subsequently released from camp to focus on his medical recovery.

Ayew’s absence represents a massive blow to the national squad’s offensive depth and tactical experience. As one of the longest-serving figures in Ghanaian football, the veteran leader boasts an impressive record of 33 goals in 122 international caps.

Beyond his goalscoring contributions, Ayew's decade-long veteran presence and leadership on and off the pitch have consistently anchored the team under successive managerial regimes.

This sudden injury compounds an expanding personnel crisis for Carlos Queiroz as he prepares his squad for high-stakes encounters against Ivory Coast and Gambia, as well as an international friendly against Morocco.

Ayew is not the only high-profile star missing from the roster. Striker Antoine Semenyo and experienced left-back Baba Rahman have both withdrawn from the squad.

Additionally, Tottenham star Mohammed Kudus turned down his first call-up under Coach Queiroz, choosing to remain at Tottenham’s Enfield training facility to continue recovering from a long-term injury lay-off.

Deprived of several frontline leaders simultaneously, the Black Stars technical team faces a major test of squad depth and resilience.

Also Read: Antoine Semenyo Withdraws From Ghana Squad Ahead of Ivory Coast Clash

The loss of captain Jordan Ayew, alongside key figures like Kudus and Semenyo, leaves Ghana facing a formidable challenge heading into their clash with Ivory Coast.

While technical staff hope Ayew's knee injury proves minor so he can return for future international commitments, the immediate focus shifts to how Carlos Queiroz reshapes his side.