I don’t know why Dede Ayew was dropped from World Cup squad – Kofi Adams

By: Godbless Asaana
Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams, has noted that he has no knowledge as to why veteran forward Andre Dede Ayew was dropped from the Black Stars’ squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking on Hot Issues with Keminni Amanor on Sunday, May 31, the sports minister acknowledged the surprise surrounding Ayew’s exclusion but said he would reserve judgment until after the tournament.

“I don’t know why Dede Ayew wasn’t selected. I’ve not spoken to the coach about it yet. As a minister, I had my wishes and persons I would have loved to be in there, but if they’re not there let us leave it at that. We’ll have a conversation after the World Cup,” he said.

He revealed that he is yet to discuss the matter directly with coach Carlos Queiroz.

During the interview, Mr. Adams also addressed speculation that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) CC may have influenced the coach’s selection decisions, firmly dismissing the suggestion.

“I have no evidence that the GFA influenced the coach in the selection of the players,” he stated.

He also mentioned that the team will be led by Antoine Semenyo into the attacking line, while placing the responsibility on the coach.

“It is Carlos Queiroz’s responsibility to get the best out of Semenyo amid the omission of some star players,” he noted.

Ghana’s Black Stars are currently in Cardiff, Wales, training under head coach Carlos Queiroz for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 28-man provisional squad is preparing for an international friendly against Wales on June 2, after which the roster will be trimmed to 26 for the tournament in North America.

Head coach Carlos Queiroz named a 28-man provisional squad that features several key returning players, including Greece-based defender Baba Abdul Rahman and Olympique Lyon winger Ernest Nuamah. The team opened camp in Wales at Dragon Park on May 25, integrating European-based players as their club seasons concluded.