Andre Ayew - Photo Courtesy Ghana FA Media.
Ghana’s most capped player, Andre Ayew has credited former Olympique Marseille president, Pape Diouf for shaping his career in ways either than football.
Andre in an interview with Ligue 1, named key personalities who helped put his career on a straight path leading to a successful football career.
The former Swansea City forward first endorsed his father, the legendary Abedi Pele for influencing his life describing the three time African Footballer of the Year as his “idol.”
"He is my idol, very influential in everything that I do. He has always supported me, always advised me, and made me dream big. He’s my everything," Ayew stated.
The 35-year-old, who played 43 times for English Premier League club, West Ham United over two seasons, gave a lot of props to his mother, Maha Ayew, describing her as "the queen of the Ayew family," hailing her role in managing all aspects of family life, including education and well-being. "These two (my parents) are on top of the list," he stated.
Ayew’s journey with Olympique Marseille saw him feature 160 games in all competitions with two loan spells at Lorient and Arles-Avignon. He acknowledges the late Pape Diouf, former Olympique Marseille president, as a mentor who "shaped my mindset in a lot of ways." Diouf's advice extended beyond football, stressing the importance of character.
His aunt, Hala, whom he calls his "second mother," provided crucial support during his transition to France. "She believed in me from day one. She’s someone I love dearly and is very close to my heart," Ayew said.
Finally, Ayew recognized the influence of coaches like Jose Anigo and Didier Deschamps, as well as senior national team players like John Mensah and John Paintsil.
"I am someone who values loyalty a lot, and these people were there for me. They helped shape who I am today," he concluded.
Andre Ayew has played 12 games for struggling Ligue 1 club, Le Havre, scoring two goals with no assists this season.
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