Former Ghana international Matthew Amoah has shed light on the behind-the-scenes role he played in NAC Breda’s decision to sign André Ayew, insisting his contribution was limited but decisive in shaping the club’s final assessment.
Amoah, a respected figure at NAC Breda and a former prolific striker, revealed that while he was not directly involved in negotiations, the club’s hierarchy sought his professional opinion when speculation over Ayew’s potential move began circulating.
Speaking in an interview, Amoah explained that his familiarity with Ayew’s situation became a key reference point at a critical stage of the recruitment process.
“It was only 10 percent, but it was literally one of the major ones because I was consulted by the club hierarchy about his fitness and condition after rumors of his transfer broke in the airwaves,” Amoah said.
As part of NAC Breda’s coaching staff, where he works closely on developing attacking players, Amoah’s evaluation carried significant weight. Drawing on his experience and close monitoring of Ayew’s training regime in Ghana, he was able to offer a realistic and informed assessment of the former Black Stars captain’s readiness.
“I told them he was quite fit because I saw most of his training videos at his dad’s club, Nania FC, with other teammates like Wakaso Mubarak and others,” he explained.
However, Amoah was careful to balance optimism with caution. He emphasized that physical fitness did not necessarily translate into immediate match sharpness, particularly for a player who had been without a club for several months.
“So I told the team authorities he could be fit but not match-fit, so we could condition him if we are able to secure his signature and get him ready to help us,” he added.
Ayew eventually completed his move to NAC Breda and has since begun integrating into the squad. His experience, leadership, and professionalism have already been evident on the training ground and in the dressing room as he adapts to his new environment.
In the end, Amoah’s honest and measured input underlines the importance of trusted internal assessments in modern football recruitment. While he modestly downplayed his influence, his insight proved crucial in helping NAC Breda make a calculated decision—one that could yet yield significant rewards as André Ayew settles in and prepares to make his impact on the pitch.
