It’s impossible to discuss Ghanaian football without recognizing the prominence of the Ayew family. At the heart of this football dynasty is André Morgan Rami Ayew, better known by his nicknames “Dede” and “Mopao.” Born to Maha Ayew and the legendary Ghanaian footballer Abedi Pele in Seclin, Northern France, André grew up with football coursing through his veins.
Being the son of one of Africa’s greatest footballers is both a blessing and a burden. André had the unique privilege of watching his father, Abedi Pele, achieve remarkable feats on the pitch, inspiring an entire generation of African players. Yet, with that came the pressure to live up to his father’s legacy—a challenge young André embraced from the beginning.
After Abedi Pele hung up his boots, the Ayew family returned to Ghana, and at just ten years old, André was enrolled in the Nania Football Academy in Accra, founded by his father. From that point, André’s journey was marked by hard work, passion, and a relentless drive to carve out his own name in the world of football. This is the story of a son who followed in his father’s legendary footsteps but with the determination to leave his own imprint on the beautiful game.
Preamble:
The Ayew Dynasty is one of the most enduring topics in Ghanaian football. In this biography of André Ayew, we dive deep into his life, sharing insights into his childhood, early years, and his close-knit family. We’ll explore his connection with his legendary father, Abedi Pele Ayew, his mother Maha Ayew, and his siblings Jordan, Ibrahim, and Imani Ayew. We’ll also touch on his family roots, heritage, and much more.
But the story doesn’t end there. This biography also reveals details about André Ayew’s personal life—his wife, El Alia Yvonne Ayew, his two daughters, Inaya and Maha, as well as his extended family, including his grandparents and uncles, Kwame and Sola Ayew.
In essence, this is the tale of a “daddy’s boy” who witnessed his father’s remarkable achievements in football and felt the call to carry on the family’s legacy. André Ayew didn’t just want to live in his father’s shadow; he wanted to carve out his own path in the sport.
We begin this journey by shedding light on his early life, following the steps he took on his way to stardom. From the defining moments that shaped his rise to prominence to the key turning points that cemented his place in football, this memoir offers a comprehensive look at the life of André Ayew.
To spark your curiosity, we’ll take you through a visual gallery of his early days— from being cradled in his father’s arms to his ascension to national fame as a football icon in his own right.
Andre Ayew Childhood Story:
For Biography starters, he bears the nicknames – “Dede” and “Mopao”. André Morgan Rami Ayew was born on the 17th day of December 1989 to his Mother (Maha Ayew) and Father (Abedi Pele). He was born to Ghanaian and Lebanese parents in Seclin, Northern France.
Andre came into the world as the second-born child out of four children born to his Dad. And the first son of the marital union between his parents, whom we have pictured here.
Behold a very beautiful Maha Ayew – Andre Ayew’s Mum (on her wedding day). Also, Abedi Pele, his Legendary Dad (just after he just won a Champions League final).
Growing Up:
Ayew spent his childhood days in Seclin, a commune in the arrondissement of Lille, France. He grew up alongside his male siblings – an older brother, Ibrahim Ayew, and a younger brother, Jordan Ayew. On the other hand, he grew up alongside his kid sister, Imani Ayew.
Find here a childhood pic of little Andre, Jordan and Imani as they pose for a photo. Here, Abedi Ayew’s sons (Andre and Jordan) were probably around 8 and 10 years old. Imani Ayew was less than a year old. Abedi Pele (at that time) played his football in Germany.
Andre Ayew’s Early Life:
Dede (his nickname) spent most of his boyhood years mostly alongside his Dad. Not just him, but his brother, Jordan. The truth is, not every child gets the opportunity to be the son of a football legend. Early on, Abedi Pele ensured his sons followed in his footballing steps.
The relationship between the Ghanaian football Legend and his three sons (Ibrahim, Ayew and Jordan) remains top-notch even to this day. Yes, it might interest you to note that Abedi Pele’s three sons are all professional footballers – with trophies to their names.
Andre Ayew Family Background:
Having a Dad who, in the 1990s, got paid so well as a professional footballer implies coming from a rich home. Put simply, Andre Ayew is from a rich family. Thanks to his superstar Dad, Andre, his Mum and siblings never lacked. They (below) enjoyed life to the fullest.
A little of Andre Ayew’s father’s background:
Abedi Pele is one of the greatest African footballers of his generation. Just like the late Diego Maradona, he was a player-maker known for speed, close control, dribbling, passing and goalscoring. The FIFA stat below explains why people call him “The African Maradona.”
Severally, Andre Ayew’s Father won the hearts of football fans during his playing career days. He won many trophies for both his country (Ghana) and clubs. Now, here is a video showing The African Maradona conjuring his magic on the football field – during the 1990s.
Andre Ayew Family Origin:
Dede, as they call him, has three nationalities. Contrary to what fans think, Andre Ayew’s nationality is not ONLY Ghana. The footballer’s birth country is France – which means he is a citizen of France. Now, let’s explain Andre Ayew’s family origins through his parents’ side.
Secondly, Andre Ayew’s Father is fully Ghanaian. That made him hold Ghanaian citizenship, and this has qualified him to play for the West African country. Lastly, Andre Ayew’s Mother has Lebanese family origins, meaning she is from Lebanon, a country in Western Asia.
Truth be told, Lebanese women command beauty. And you can judge that from Andre Ayew’s Mum’s facial traits and slender body. We’ve prepared this map gallery (below) to help you understand Andre Ayew’s family origin. France, Ghana and Lebanon are his nationalities.
Andre Ayew Ethnicity:
Research shows that André Ayew identifies with Ghana’s Akan people. The Akan are the largest ethnic group in Ghana, making up about 47% of the population. Their rich cultural heritage and traditions are central to Ghanaian identity. Through his father, Abedi Pele, André belongs to the Akan ethnic group and speaks the native Akan language, connecting deeply with his cultural roots.
Andre Ayew Education:
The Ghanaian captain began his elementary school education in France when his dad played with Lille and Lyon. From the years 1993 to 1998, Andre Ayew changed schools on different occasions owing to his family’s football movement from France to Italy and Germany.
Career Buildup:
While Andre attended his primary school in Munich (Germany), his Dad made him enrol with the 1860 München Academy. That was where his career started. Andre Ayew’s Father, Abedi Pele (at that time), played with the 1860 München senior team.
Following his Dad’s career retirement, Andre Ayew’s family travelled to Ghana. At the age of ten, Abedi Pele enrolled his son at Nania, an Accra-based football academy. This academy (based in Legon, Greater Accra.) has Ayew’s Dad (Abedi Pele) as its chairman.
Andre Ayew Biography – Football Story:
After spending four years at Nania’s academy, the son of Abedi Pele (at age fourteen) got a promotion to the team’s senior squad. At that age, Andre participated in the 2004 edition of the Altstetten U-19 Tournament. In that competition, he became the most valuable player.
According to the plans of his Dad, Andre was to stay with Nana until the age of 16 before departing abroad. So, in the year 2006, the entire members of Andre Ayew’s family moved to France. While there, the Ayew brothers joined Marseille’s academy.
When compared to what exists in Africa, French football academies are very competitive. Upon arriving at Marseille, Andre had to move a step back. Even though he played senior football in Ghana, Marseille recommended he play in their youth system for just a year.
In the year 2007, Andre Ayew became a professional footballer with Marseille. To the joy of his family, the Rising star signed a three-year contract. At this time, the only thing in the boy’s mind was to win trophies at his Dad’s old club. The same goes for Jordan, his brother.
During that time, the son of Abedi Pele was drafted into Ghana’s U20 youth side. Did you know?… a brilliant Ayew captained his country to win the memorable FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2009. It didn’t end there. That glorious year, he also won the African Youth Championship.
Andre Ayew Bio – Road to Fame Story:
To compete at the Marseille senior level, Dede needed experience. By implication, it means taking a loan move to develop himself. Like most academy graduates, Andre Ayew paid his football dues. First, Marseille loaned him to Lorient and then to Arles-Avignon.
Now back from his loan, the youngster became ready to compete for a first-team selection. Just maybe you don’t know, Andre played alongside the likes of Samir Nasri and Djibril Cisse. At that time, a very young Boubacar Kamara was at OM’s academy. Because Andre was very good, Marseille sold Franck Ribery to Bayern Munich.
Didier Deschamps, a French legend and former Marseille teammate of Abedi Pele, joined the club as manager in the 09/10 season. He made the Ayew brothers (Jordan and Andre) play together. Surprisingly, he brought Chelsea’s Legend, Cesar Azpilicueta to the club.
The Ayew brothers did not disappoint their father’s old friend and former colleague. The formidable partnership of both brothers led to many great goals and trophies. With Marseille, Andre won the Coupe de la Ligue (x2) and the Trophée des Champions (x2).
Andre Ayew Bio – Rise to Fame Story:
Following Didier Deschamps‘ departure from Marseille to coach the French national team, everything began changing with the club. Andre Ayew departed for Swansea City, while Dimitri Payet (AM), Florian Thauvin, Benjamin Mendy, and Michy Batshuayi arrived at Marseille.
As anticipated, André Ayew made an instant impression when he joined Swansea City. In recognition of his outstanding performances, he was named Premier League (PL) Player of the Month for August 2015. Following in the footsteps of players like Jonjo Shelvey and Michu, André played a key role in helping Swansea secure respectable positions in the Premier League table, further cementing his reputation in English football.
With a West Ham move, he played alongside Enner Valencia and Arthur Masuaku before going back to Swansea. The Welsh club missed him dearly and needed him back. At that time, Swansea had the likes of Bafétimbi Gomis, Renato Sanches and Tammy Abraham.
In the 18/19 season, Andre made history again by playing alongside his brother, Jordan, at Swansea. The next season, both brothers went on to find greener pastures. While Andre joined Victor Moses at Fenerbahçe (on loan), his brother joined Zaha’s Crystal Palace.
Playing in Qatar in preparation for the 2022 FIFA World Cup:
After his loan move, Andre decided it was time to continue his father’s legacy by winning more trophies. As observed from the video below, he took Daddy’s advice and then made a big career decision.
Andre snubbed English Premier League teams before joining Al Sadd Sports Club. A big club that once boasted of having the likes of Arsenal Legend Santi Cazorla. Al Sadd is a Qatari sports club based in the Al Sadd district of Doha.
With the club, Andre Ayew became their best player and highest goal scorer. His leadership qualities and bravery in front of goal helped the club win two trophies. The first is the Qatar Stars League trophy, and the second is the Emir of Qatar Cup.
At the time of writing Andre Ayew’s biography, his country, Ghana, had just qualified for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He, alongside Thomas Partey, Felix Afena-Gyan, Daniel Amartey, etc, is set to replicate Ghana’s performance as seen in their 2010 FIFA World Cup.
In case you missed that unforgettable highlight against Nigeria, here is the match that qualified Ghana for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Thomas Partey was Ghana’s greatest saviour.
Just like Asamoah Gyan, Michael Essien and Kevin Prince Boateng, Andre Ayew is indeed a Legend for his country. Abedi Pele has done a great job by raising sons who have retained Ghana’s football on the world map. The rest of Andre Ayew’s Biography is now history.
Having told you the career story of Andre Ayew, we’ll use the next section to unveil facts about his wife and children. Now, without further ado, let’s begin.
Andre Ayew’s Love Life:
Behind the Ghanaian football Legend, there exists a glamorous woman. Her name is El Alia Yvonne. Because she became Andre Ayew’s wife, Yvonne changed her name to carry the surname -Yvonne Ayew.
So lucky as a man, André Ayew has a wife of enamoured beauty. From our findings, Yvonne met Andre during her schooling days. For you to cope and understand the fact that Yvonne is beautiful, feed your eyes with this image of her stunning beauty.
About Andre Ayew’s Wife – Yvonne Ayew:
First, we will tell you Andre Ayew’s Wife’s occupation. According to our findings, she is a businesswoman who deals with women’s wear. Yvonne Ayew is the CEO of Kynamah and Kyna collection. This is a women’s Clothing (Brand) with headquarters in Paris.
Aside from being a businesswoman, Yvonne Ayew is the strongest pillar behind her man. Andre Ayew’s wife celebrates her birthday every 4th of November. She is a wife who holds a belief that behind every strong woman, there is God.
Andre Ayew’s wife is very close to Denise Acquah, Jordan Ayew’s wife. Also, the rest of the Ayew family. On a personal note, Yvonne Ayew prides herself as a fashionista. Here is a video that tells you a bit about her fashionable nature.
Andre Ayew’s Children with Yvonne:
As of 2022, the Ghanian Winger has two adorable daughters. Dede has yet to have a son (male child) at the time of writing his biography.
Inaya and Maha (his Mum’s namesake) are Andre Ayew’s Children with Yvonne. There are no kids from another woman. Behold a photo of Andre Ayew’s wife and daughters.
About Andre Ayew’s Daughters:
Upon researching about his children, we notice they are talented singers. Here is a video that proves Andre Ayew’s Daughters’ singing and piano-playing capabilities.
Personal Life away from Football:
Away from what he does on the pitch, who exactly is Andre Ayew?
As a true leader, Andre loves to have fierce conversations with his Ghanaian teammates. He is a leader who has mastered the courage to interrogate reality. Here is one of Dede’s fierce team talk moments that shocked the entire Ghanian dressing room.
During holidays, Andre makes it a point of duty to visit some of his African football heroes. One among them is the Legendary Samuel Eto’o. Aside from his Dad (Abedi Pele), Dede relies on Eto’o for advice on his personal and club career life.
LifeStyle:
Truth be told, Dede is a rich man. Andre Ayew’s wages have brought him health. And it is directly proportional to the value he has created in football. The Ghanaian legend lives a glamorous lifestyle, one that is easily noticeable by his handful of expensive cars.
Andre Ayew’s Cars – Bentley and others:
Life is indeed too short to drive simple cars. In Andre Ayew’s car garage, you can find the most dazzling rides that meet his taste. From the look of things, Dede loves his cars to be white. Andre Ayew’s house has a Bentley and Brabus G Wagon – as seen below.
There is always a feeling of pride whenever Andre cruises his car alongside his Dad in the streets of Accra. In the video below, we found the luxurious imprint of Abedi Pele on his son. This is Andre picking up his family members from the airport – in a flamboyant way.
When Andre acquired it, Bentley was the most sought-after luxury car brand. Also, at that time, most African footballers (for example, Mikel Obi) preferred using Bentley to other cars in their garage. As of 2022, the cost of Bentley ranges from $177,000 – $245,000.
Andre Ayew Family Facts:
Many African footballers who have made it came from poor families. They endured a great struggle to achieve their dreams of becoming successful in the sport. Andre had everything from childhood. In this section, we’ll tell you facts about his family members.
About Andre Ayew’s Father:
Abedi Pele, the legendary Ghanaian footballer and father of André Ayew, was born on November 5, 1964. His birthplace is in the family’s hometown of Kibi, located in the Eastern Region of Ghana. Though born in Kibi, Abedi Pele spent his early years growing up in Dome, a town on the northern outskirts of Accra, where his journey to football greatness began.
As a child, Abedi Pele attended Ghana Senior High School in Tamale, the capital city of the Northern Region of Ghana. Did you know?… Andre Ayew’s Dad was given the nickname “Pelé” because of his abilities in football, which evoked comparisons to the Brazilian Pelé.
About Andre Ayew’s Mother:
Maha Ayew is best described as the beautiful wife of Abedi Pele Ayew, the three-time African footballer of the year.
Upon looking at her, you could mistake her for Andre Ayew’s girlfriend. Put simply, Maha is ageless. She married Abedi Pele in 1987, and they have three children together. Andre, Jordan and Imani (in their birth order) are the three children of Maha Ayew.
About Andre Ayew’s Siblings – Jordan, Ibrahim and Imani:
We’ll use this section of our Biography to tell you Facts about Andre Ayew’s brothers – Ibrahima and Jordan. Also, his only sister, Imani Ayew. Without further ado, let’s begin.
About Ibrahim Ayew:
Rahim Ayew, though less well-known than his younger brothers André and Jordan, is also a professional footballer. As the eldest of the Ayew brothers, he made his mark by representing Ghana alongside André in the 2010 South African hosted FIFA World Cup. Unlike his siblings, Rahim was not born to Maha Ayew, but he remains an integral part of the Ayew football legacy.
Rahim goes by the full names Ibrahim Abdul Rahim Ayew. He is one year older than Andre and was born on the 16th day of April 1988, in Tamale, Ghana. Ibrahim Ayew is a defensive midfielder. Most of his playing career has been within Ghana and the African continent.
About Jordan Ayew:
Statistically, he is the most successful of the Ayew brothers when it comes to trophies won in Marseille. Jordan Pierre Ayew is the third son of Abedi Pele. Jordan, like his brothers, is a practising Muslim. The footballer is married to Denise Acquah, and they have two children.
Andre Ayew’s Sister:
Imani Ayew is the only daughter of Abedi Pele and Maha Ayew. Beautiful Imani is a perfect carbon copy of her mother. According to reports, she is a non-competitive athlete who once tried Tennis and football. Here is Imani, together with her family, at a burial ceremony.
About Andre Ayew’s Relatives:
Kwame Ayew and Sola Ayew are uncles to Andre. Both of Andre Ayew’s uncles are former international footballers. Now, let’s give you some facts about these relatives of Andre Ayew.
About Kwame Ayew:
Born on the 28th day of December 1973 (in Tamale, Ghana), he is the younger brother of Abedi Pele. Both attended Ghana Senior High School in Tamale. Andre Ayew’s uncle was a striker during his career days. He played mainly in Portugal (Sporting CP and other clubs).
Kwame Ayew, André Ayew’s uncle, enjoyed an impressive football career, scoring 132 goals at the club level and adding 9 more for the Ghana national team. But did you know that Kwame was also part of the Ghana squad that earned a bronze medal at the Great 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona? This achievement cemented his place in Ghanaian football history, contributing to the rich legacy of the Ayew family.
About Sola Ayew:
Even from the extended family side, Football runs in the blood of most members. Sola, who is Andre Ayew’s uncle, is also a retired professional footballer. He is Abedi Pele’s younger brother and Kwame Ayew’s immediate older brother.
Sola Ayew is someone who never hides his admiration for his brother’s sons – Andre and Jordan. These days, he serves as a sports anchor with Nkunim FM, which is one of the most popular online radio stations in Ghana.
About Andre Ayew’s Grandfather – Alhaji AA Khadir:
As earlier recalled, Dede’s family ancestry has a Lebanese link through his mother’s side. To show evidence of our view, we present you with a photo of Andre Ayew’s grandfather. Khadir is Maha Ayew’s Father. From his looks, you could tell he is of Lebanese origin.
Unfortunately, Andre Ayew’s grandfather is late. The father-in-law of Abedi Pele died in Lebanon after battling with illness. Nicknamed ‘Azo’, before his death, he was a friendly Dad to a multitude of children and family members, close and distant relatives.
Andre Ayew’s grandfather was a Muslim before his death. Because of that, he was buried in accordance with Islamic custom. Alhaji AA Khadir died in 2016; at the time, his grandson (Andre) played for Swansea City.
Untold Facts:
Wrapping up Andre Ayew’s Biography, we’ll use this last section to unveil some facts about him. Without further ado, let’s begin.
Andre Ayew’s Alleged Usage of African Black Magic (Voodoo or Juju):
Over the years, fans have laid accusations against many African footballers in terms of using West African black magic. Back in the day, it was Cheick Tioté. More recently, Andre Ayew was alleged to have used African Voodoo or Juju because of his actions in this video.
Although he lost the match, our views of his action are not in line with most public views. We believe Ayew is holding salt in his hands. Salt is used to purify the land. Also, protect oneself from other African teams – just in case they are using witchcraft.
In conclusion, Andre Ayew used salt probably because he didn’t want any spell to work against his team. Dear readers, kindly use the comment section to tell us your views about his actions. Do you agree with our interpretations of Andre’s actions?
The moment a Thief stole Andre Ayew’s Watch:
The Ghana captain once had his expensive wristwatch stolen. Thankfully, the thief who stole Andre Ayew’s watch got caught in action. Here is the videotape of how the thief in the crowd found his way in removing the 20,000 pounds watch from Ayew’s wrist.
What is Andre Ayew’s Net Worth?
With more than fifteen years of professional football experience, Dede has earned a lot of money. As of 2022, Andre Ayew’s net worth is approximately 16.7 million dollars. The Source of Dede’s income comes from his football wages, sponsorship and contract bonuses.
Comparing Andre Ayew’s Wages to that of the Average Ghanian Citizen:
From our findings, the average citizen of Ghana makes around 22,600 GHS every month. Did you know?… such a citizen would need 49 years to make Andre Ayew’s Al Sadd Salary. WoW… that is more than half of a human being’s lifetime.
Andre Ayew FIFA:
Even in his post-prime ages, Ghana’s captain still has very good FIFA stats. The photo below confirms the fact that Andre Ayew (in his 30s) lacks nothing in football except defending. In fact, the Ghanian Legend’s style of play is very much like that of Karl Toko Ekambi (in terms of attack) and Didier Drogba (who was very good in his prime).
Andre Ayew Religion:
Dede is actually a Muslim, even though his name is popular among people from the Christian religion. On several occasions, the media has spotted him and his brother (Jordan) in mosques. Just like the rest of his family members, Andre is a devoted Muslim.
Is Andre Ayew’s Wife a Muslim?
Yes, she is. As a matter of fact, we have spotted her attending Friday prayers. Now, here is Alia Yvonne Ayew and her daughter just after attending The Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
EndNote:
André Ayew was born to his parents – Father (Abedi Pele), Mother (Maha Ayew). He grew up alongside his brothers, Ibrahim and Jordan, and a sister, Imani. Dede, as they nickname him, is from a famous football family. His Dad (Abedi Pele) and Uncles were footballers.
The footballer has a family origin in Ghana and Lebanon. Starting off, Andre Ayew’s Dad hails from Kibi, Eastern Region, Ghana. On the other hand, his Mother (Maha Ayew) has Lebanese family origins. France, Ghana and Lebanon are Andre Ayew’s nationalities.
Abedi Pele (Andre Ayew’s Dad) is a Ghanaian Football Legend. He is a three-time African Footballer of the Year (1991, 1992, 1993), African Nations Cup and Champions League winner. The proud Dad made his sons – Ibrahim, Andre and Jordan – follow in his footsteps.
André Ayew began his football career with 1860 Munich. He went through the academy ranks of Nania and Marseille. He began playing for the Black Stars after helping his country win the FIFA U-20 World Cup and the African Youth Championship (all in 2009).
As a pro, Andre rose to become a popular figure in football. Andre has won several honours in his illustrious career, including the 2011 BBC African Sports Personality of the Year award. As I create this Bio, he is just about to lead Ghana to the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Appreciation Note:
Thank you for taking the time to read the Biography of Andre Ayew, the son of Abedi Pele. We care about delivering you African Football Stories.
While doing that, we ensure proper historical documentation for Ghanaian football Players. You’ll find our story of Abdul Fatawu (RW), Mohammed Kudus (AM) and Inaki Williams (CF) very interesting.
Please reach out to us (via comment) if you notice anything that doesn’t look right in Dede’s Bio. Again, we would like to hear your feedback on Andre Ayew’s Story.
Tell us via comments what you think about the Black Star’s captain and his amazing biography.