In a deeply heartfelt moment, former Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan could not contain his emotions as he revealed his retirement from professional football. While Gyan has been inactive for several years, he had consistently maintained that he was still an active, professional footballer. However, during his speech at the Afreximbank 30th Annual Meeting held at the Accra International Conference Centre on Tuesday, the time had finally arrived for him to bid farewell.
With tears streaming down his face, Gyan, accompanied by Ivory Coast football legend Didier Drogba, announced the end of his illustrious career. Drogba, empathetic and supportive, embraced the emotional Ghanaian star, attempting to provide solace during this poignant moment.
In a statement released on June 20, 2023, Gyan, Ghana’s all-time leading scorer, conveyed his decision to retire after an incredible 18-year professional journey. Reflecting on this pivotal stage, Gyan expressed, “…I want to take this great opportunity, a stage that is difficult in every footballer’s career, a moment all footballers do not wish, but when nature dawns, that thin voice will keep echoing into the ears…IT IS TIME…that voice has been clear in my ears, and I have succumbed to it, IT IS TIME. IT IS TIME TO HANG THE JERSEY AND BOOTS IN GLORY as I retire officially from active football.”
Gyan’s remarkable career commenced in 2003 at Liberty Professional and concluded in 2021 with his last active involvement at Legon Cities. Throughout his journey, he graced the field for 11 different clubs, including Liberty, Udinese, Modena F.C, Stade Rennais, Sunderland, Al Ain FC, Shanghai Port F.C, Shabab Al Ahli Club, Kayserispor, NorthEast United FC, and Legon Cities.
On the international stage, Gyan solidified his legacy as Ghana’s all-time leading scorer, amassing 51 goals in 109 appearances. He also holds the distinction of being Africa’s top scorer at the World Cup, with an impressive tally of 6 goals. Gyan etched his name in history by scoring Ghana’s first-ever goal in the World Cup during the 2006 edition. Additionally, his crucial goal propelled the nation to the quarter-finals in 2010, marking Ghana as only the third African country to achieve such a feat—later surpassed by Morocco in the 2022 World Cup.
Participating in seven Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, Gyan showcased his talent on the continental stage, reaching two finals, albeit falling short on both occasions. His notable contributions make him Ghana’s second-highest scorer in the AFCON, having netted 8 goals.
As Asamoah Gyan bids farewell to his extraordinary football career, he leaves behind an indelible mark on the sport. His accomplishments, coupled with his unwavering passion, will forever be remembered, inspiring generations to come.
