Former Nigeria international and Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has thrown his support behind former Black Stars captain André Dede Ayew to become the next President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
Mikel said Ayew has gained enough experience from his long playing career to take on a leadership role in Ghanaian football and deserves serious consideration for the position.
Speaking on the Obi One Podcast in Accra on August 23, 2026, the former Super Eagles midfielder said he was prepared to actively campaign for Ayew and help build support for his potential bid.
“I am going to campaign for André Ayew to become GFA President,” Mikel said.
He suggested that he would use his relationships within the football community to encourage administrators and officials to support the former Ghana captain if he decides to contest the position.
Ayew has previously acknowledged that he is aware of calls from some Ghanaians for him to enter the GFA presidential race. However, the former captain has indicated that seeking the position is not currently his main priority.
His involvement in Ghanaian football has nevertheless remained visible, with Ayew making appearances at football-related events and showing support for clubs and other stakeholders in the domestic game.
The 36-year-old is currently a free agent after spending the 2025/26 season with Dutch side NAC Breda.
Ayew has enjoyed an extensive career both at international and club level. He captained the Black Stars for several years and played for clubs in France, England, Turkey and Qatar, among other countries.
Mikel believes that experience could give Ayew the credentials needed to move from the pitch into football administration should he eventually decide to pursue the GFA presidency.
