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Andre Dede Ayew has returned to top-flight European football after completing a short-term move to Dutch Eredivisie side NAC Breda, as the club intensifies efforts to avoid relegation this season.
The 36-year-old Ghana international has signed a deal that runs until the end of the current campaign, with NAC retaining the option to extend the contract for an additional season. His arrival comes as the club battles to preserve its Eredivisie status in the second half of the season.
Ayew had been without a club since last summer after leaving French side Le Havre, where he played his final competitive matches in May 2025. Despite receiving several offers in recent months, the former Black Stars captain opted to wait for a project he considered suitable, while maintaining his fitness at Nania FC, the club owned by his father and African football icon Abédi Pelé.
NAC officials say Ayew’s experience and mentality were key factors in the decision to bring him in at a crucial stage of the season. The forward joins the squad immediately and is expected to take part in training when the team resumes preparations on January 2 at the BO Infra Training Complex in Zundert under head coach Carl Hoefkens.
Speaking after completing the move, Ayew said he was motivated by the challenge facing the club and the opportunity to make an immediate impact. “I'm someone who really enjoys challenges, both personally and as part of a team. I find that here at NAC. I want to do everything I can to help the club and my teammates. We're in a situation where staying in the Eredivisie is the only thing that matters. The mental aspect is perhaps the most important thing in this situation. Together with our supporters, we must fight this battle head-on in the second half of the season.”
Technical Director Peter Maas said discussions with the player convinced the club that Ayew could make a difference in their survival push. “André is eager to help NAC in their fight for survival. That's become very clear from our conversations. We're currently in a difficult position with NAC. Ayew has also faced some tough times in his career. He's a true sportsman who takes good care of himself. We believe that with his experience and specific qualities, he can be of value to NAC right now.”
Ayew brings a wealth of experience to the Breda based club, having amassed more than 120 international caps for Ghana and scored 24 goals for the national team. He has enjoyed spells with Olympique Marseille, Swansea City and West Ham United, and has made close to 600 appearances across major European leagues and competitions, scoring over 160 goals.
His signing also strengthens the Ghanaian contingent at NAC Breda, where he links up with compatriots Dennis Odoi and Kamal Sowah. Club officials believe his leadership on and off the pitch will be vital as NAC prepare for a decisive run in the fight to remain in the Dutch top flight.
