The former Ghana captain recently completed a short-term move to NAC Breda following the end of his contract at Le Havre, where he featured in Ligue 1 last season.
While Ayew attracted interest from clubs across different continents, he says the project presented by NAC and the familiar Ghanaian ties within the club ultimately tipped the balance in their favour.
The 34-year-old pointed to NAC Breda’s history and identity as another major attraction, noting the club’s strong following and its past links with Ghanaian players.
“With a big fan base also. This club has a big name. We have players like Mathew Amoah, others who have made their name here. There’s my little brother Kamal here and Denis is also here.” Ayew said.
Matthew Amoah remains one of the most iconic figures in NAC Breda’s modern history. The former Ghana international striker spent four seasons at the club between 2007 and 2011, becoming a fan favourite and one of their most prolific forwards.
Amoah now maintains close ties with NAC Breda and serves in a technical and advisory capacity, focusing on developing the forwards and attacking players.
That Ghanaian legacy continues in the current squad. Ayew joins Kamal Sowah and Denis Odoi, both Ghana internationals who were part of the Black Stars squad at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Ayew arrives at NAC Breda with a clear short-term objective. The club are back in the Eredivisie and currently locked in a battle to secure their status in the top flight, with the Ghanaian expected to bring leadership and experience during the second half of the season.
“I think this is the perfect place when I look at the fan base, when I look at the style of play and everything,” he said.
“I looked at everything and yeah, the club showed me a lot of determination and I showed it back and we are going for this six months to make sure the club stays in the top league.”
The former Ghana captain made his debut for NAC Breda coming on in the second half during a goalless draw away to FC Groningen. While he is still working his way back to peak condition, the forward is taking a measured approach to his fitness.
“Well, I know I’m not 100% fit but we’re getting there. We’re working hard, the physical team. I stayed in shape till now but nothing can replace matches, official games. Just have to climb the steps and then I know very soon I’ll be on my top with my fitness.”
NAC Breda currently sit 16th in the Dutch Eredivisie with 14 points from 18 games and face Nijmegen at home in their next league game.
