Former Central Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Bernard Allottey Jacobs, has advised legendary footballer Abedi Ayew ‘Pele’ to encourage his sons, Andre and Jordan Ayew, to retire from the Black Stars in the wake of mounting criticism.
The Ayew brothers, following in their father’s footsteps, have been key players for the Black Stars for over a decade. However, as they entered their 30s, particularly Andre, who currently captains the team, they have faced increasing scrutiny, with calls for their retirement.
Allottey Jacobs believes it is in the best interest of the Ayew brothers and their father’s legacy to step away from the national team. He cited the relentless attacks the brothers endured after Ghana’s exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a reason for the retirement suggestion.
“If I were Abedi Pele, I’d tell my children not to play for the Black Stars again,” Allottey Jacobs stated on Peace FM, emphasizing the power of words and the impact of public criticism.
The Ayew brothers were part of the Black Stars squad that failed to secure a win in Ivory Coast, leading to their elimination from the tournament. The Black Stars’ hopes were dashed when they squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Mozambique in their final group game.
Despite the criticism, the legendary Abedi Pele personally welcomed his sons at the Kotoka International Airport upon their return from the disappointing AFCON campaign.
Andre Ayew, with 119 caps and counting, holds the record for the player with the most appearances in the history of the AFCON, equaling Rigobert Song’s record of 36 appearances.
As the Ayew brothers contemplate their future with the national team, the call for their retirement reflects the challenges faced by seasoned players when performance expectations clash with the realities of age.