Ghana’s Black Stars captain, Andre Dede Ayew, has finally opened up about the challenging period following the team’s exit from the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), expressing remorse and taking responsibility for the disappointing results.
In a video message sighted on social media, the Le Havre player acknowledges the difficulty faced not only by himself but every Ghanaian football fan in the aftermath of the AFCON campaign.
He extended a heartfelt apology for the team’s underwhelming performance, emphasizing the collective responsibility he bears as the captain.
Ayew reflected on the team’s shortcomings during the tournament, where they failed to progress beyond the group stage, registering a winless run with losses to Cape Verde and draws against Egypt and Mozambique.
He acknowledges that better results were expected, and as the captain, he takes full responsibility for the on-field outcomes.
“In football, these are things that happen,” Ayew said as he highlighted the transformative power of challenges, adding, “What doesn’t kill you always makes you a stronger person, individually and collectively.”
Despite the disappointments, he expressed unwavering determination, asserting that Ghana, as a footballing nation, will rise again.
“We are Ghana and never going to give up… we shall rise and shine again as a family”, he noted.
He concludes by reiterating his apology and emphasizing the team’s understanding of the frustration and backlash from disappointed fans.
Ayew assures that they will work towards restoring Ghana’s football pride and reclaiming their position among the footballing elite.
“We understand the anger, backlash, everything that came to us, we take it and we will make sure that we put our flag back where it belongs.”