Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has once again left out captain Andre Ayew from the squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and Niger.

This decision marks the second consecutive time Ayew has been omitted, following his absence in the previous matches against Mali and the Central African Republic.

During the squad announcement on August 29, 2024, at the Ghana FA Headquarters in Accra, Addo addressed the press but refrained from repeating his reasons for Ayew's exclusion.

He emphasized his confidence in the younger players who performed well in the previous games, noting that their inclusion is a strategic choice to build a competitive team for the future.

Despite Ayew's absence, Addo clarified that the door is not permanently closed for the experienced forward, hinting at the possibility of his return.

"We did quite well playing young players, and I know it will get tough. I don't want to explain myself why Andre is not here," Addo stated, emphasizing his focus on maintaining the team's momentum with the current squad.

Ghana is set to play against Angola in Kumasi on September 5 before facing Niger in Morocco four days later.

The absence of Ayew, a key figure and leader in the Black Stars, will surely be a talking point among fans and pundits alike, as the team aims to secure qualification for the prestigious tournament.