Former Ghana captain Andre Ayew has revealed that the strong Ghanaian presence at NAC Breda played a decisive role in his decision to join the Dutch Eredivisie side.
The 34-year-old recently completed a short-term move to NAC Breda after his contract with French club Le Havre expired, having featured in Ligue 1 during the 2024/25 season. Despite attracting interest from clubs across Europe, Asia, and Africa, Ayew says the project presented by NAC Breda — combined with familiar Ghanaian ties — ultimately convinced him to sign.
Ayew highlighted the club’s history, identity, and passionate fan base as major attractions, while also pointing to the legacy of Ghanaian players who have previously thrived at the club.
“This club has a big fan base and a big name,” Ayew said. “We have players like Mathew Amoah and others who have made their name here. My little brother Kamal is here, and Denis is also here.”
Former Ghana international striker Mathew Amoah remains one of the most iconic figures in NAC Breda’s modern history. Amoah spent four seasons at the club between 2007 and 2011, establishing himself as a fan favourite and one of the most prolific forwards in their Eredivisie era. He continues to maintain close ties with NAC Breda and currently serves in a technical and advisory role, focusing on the development of attacking players.
That Ghanaian legacy continues in the present squad, with Ayew joining Kamal Sowah and Denis Odoi — both of whom were part of Ghana’s squad at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Ayew arrives at NAC Breda with a clear short-term mission. The club, newly promoted to the Eredivisie, are currently battling to preserve their top-flight status, and the experienced forward is expected to provide leadership and composure during the second half of the season.
“I think this is the perfect place when I look at the fan base, the style of play, and everything,” he added. “The club showed a lot of determination, and I showed it back. We are going for these six months to make sure the club stays in the top league.”
The former Ghana captain made his NAC Breda debut off the bench in the second half of a goalless draw away to FC Groningen. While still working his way back to peak condition, Ayew says he is taking a patient and structured approach to regaining full match fitness.
“I know I’m not 100 percent fit yet, but we’re getting there,” he said. “We’re working hard with the physical team. I stayed in shape, but nothing replaces official matches. Step by step, I know I’ll soon be back at my best.”
NAC Breda currently sit 16th in the Dutch Eredivisie with 14 points from 18 matches and will host NEC Nijmegen in their next league fixture as they continue their fight for survival.
