Ghanaian footballers Jordan Ayew and Kwasi Sibo have emerged at the center of widespread online discussions following the release of the Black Stars squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Somalia.

The interim technical team, headed by Swedish coach Kim Lars Björkegren, unveiled a 26-man roster ahead of Ghana’s double-header against Somalia, with the home fixture scheduled to take place at the Essipong Stadium. However, the squad list immediately ignited polarized reactions across social media platforms, driven largely by the inclusion of veteran captain Jordan Ayew and the notable omission of midfielder Kwasi Sibo.

Ayew’s continued presence in the national team drew mixed responses from football enthusiasts. While supporters acknowledged his leadership and long-standing dedication to the national side, a segment of fans questioned his inclusion, arguing that it is time for the technical setup to transition toward younger talent. Critics voiced concerns over his recent attacking output, asserting that sharper contributions are required to justify a starting spot and stave off public pressure for a generational shift.

Conversely, Kwasi Sibo’s exclusion from the 26-man list also triggered fierce debate. Sibo had previously faced public scrutiny following his performances during Ghana’s recent fixtures against The Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire. While some social media users welcomed his omission as a necessary decision to test alternative midfield options, several sports analysts defended the player, arguing that Ghana’s broader midfield challenges extend beyond an individual and that Sibo had been unfairly targeted.

As the Black Stars finalize preparations for their qualifiers against Somalia, the online discourse underscores the intense public passion and high expectations surrounding the senior national team as they seek to secure vital momentum on the road to AFCON 2027.

A huge boost for the 🇬🇭 Black Stars as Mohammed Kudus, Thomas Partey and Jordan Ayew all return after missing out on the last round of qualifiers. https://t.co/vNlHJCDWX6

— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) November 9, 2026

🚨 Kim Lars Björkegren has named a 26-man squad for the AFCON 2027 double-header against Somalia. 👊🏾

🔙 Mohammed Kudus, Jordan Ayew and Daniel Kofi Kyereh return, while Isaac Afful, Musa Hamzata, Etse Dogli and Emmanuel Annor earn their first call-ups. 🆕

🇬🇭 vs 🇸🇴 (12 November)

🇸🇴 vs 🇬🇭 (16 November)

✍🏾 https://t.co/FLRKdlC4ur

#BlackStars | #AFCON2027Q

— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) November 9, 2026

🇬🇭 Kwesi Sibo has been left out of the Black Stars squad for this international break. ❌ https://t.co/K5Kqw1WAax

— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) November 9, 2026

“Ghana’s midfield problems go beyond Kwasi Sibo.” 🎙️

@thekingadjor believes Sibo has been unfairly made a scapegoat and insists he should have been included in the Black Stars squad.

📺: https://t.co/pefr4Cmr85

#SportyFM | #MondayNightSporty https://t.co/WtILhIlB0U

— SportyFM Ghana (@SportyFM_) November 10, 2026