The inclusion of Neymar in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reignited discussion about the role of experienced players nearing the end of their international careers, with many observers drawing comparisons to former Ghana captain Andre Ayew.
Neymar, now 34, was named in Brazil’s final 26-man squad for the tournament in North America despite concerns over injuries and inconsistent performances in recent seasons. His selection has prompted renewed debate over whether experience, leadership and influence in major tournaments should be prioritised alongside current club form.
The conversation has quickly shifted towards Ghana and the future of Ayew, the country’s most capped player with 120 international appearances.
Ayew last featured for the Ghana national football team during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. Since the reappointment of coach Otto Addo in March 2024, the experienced forward has not been recalled as Ghana moved towards integrating younger players into the national setup.
However, Neymar’s return to the Brazil squad has renewed suggestions that Ayew’s international career may not yet be over.
Brazil’s decision to include Neymar appears to have been influenced not only by his footballing ability but also by his experience and leadership qualities within the squad. Supporters of Ayew believe similar considerations could benefit Ghana as the Black Stars prepare for the World Cup.
Ayew has continued to remain active at club level and recently joined Dutch Eredivisie side NAC Breda, where he has been training and participating in matches. His continued involvement in competitive football has strengthened arguments that he could still provide depth and guidance within the Ghana squad.
The debate comes at a crucial period for Ghana as preparations continue ahead of the World Cup. Questions over squad balance, leadership and tournament experience are increasingly becoming part of the wider discussion surrounding the Black Stars.
Current Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has consistently stressed that selections will be based on merit. Even so, Neymar’s inclusion in Brazil’s squad has encouraged fresh debate about whether proven international experience should sometimes outweigh recent club form when building a team for a major tournament.
For many national teams, veteran players are often viewed as important figures capable of guiding younger teammates through the pressure of elite competitions. Brazil’s decision to retain Neymar despite concerns surrounding fitness and consistency has highlighted the value some coaches place on experience during major tournaments.
In Ghana’s case, Ayew remains one of the country’s most recognisable football figures, having represented the Black Stars across multiple international competitions over a lengthy career. His leadership and familiarity with tournament football continue to be seen by some supporters as qualities that could still benefit the squad.
The discussion surrounding Ayew’s future is likely to continue as Ghana moves closer towards finalising its World Cup preparations. While there has been no indication of an imminent recall, comparisons with Neymar’s situation in Brazil have reopened the debate over whether experienced players nearing retirement can still play a decisive role on football’s biggest stage.
For Ayew, the possibility of another chapter with Ghana may still remain open.
