Ghanaian football icon Asamoah Gyan shared an emotional account of his tenure as captain of the Black Stars, lamenting the lack of support he felt during his leadership.
Speaking during an Instagram Live session, the former striker broke down in tears as he detailed his challenges, feeling abandoned by teammates, the media, and fans alike.
Gyan led the Black Stars from 2013 to 2019, steering the team to significant achievements, including qualification for the 2014 World Cup and a runner-up finish at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Asamoah Gyan really make emotional on Instagram live…@gyaigyimii @SIKAOFFICIAL1 @kwadwosheldon pic.twitter.com/fSL2PZhHpI
— Albert Mingle (@_mr_mingle_) January 2, 2025
However, his time as captain was marred by controversy, culminating in his replacement by Andre Ayew just before the 2019 AFCON in Egypt.
“In my time as captain of the national team, I was alone. I only delivered on the field,” Gyan said, his voice breaking. “The people I helped in the team turned their backs on me, and we all saw how they started leaving the team one by one.”
The 37-year-old also expressed dismay over how his achievements were overshadowed by trivial controversies. “When I scored my 50th goal for the national team, Ghanaians were debating my photo on the captain’s armband instead of celebrating my milestone. It was sad.”
Gyan criticized journalists and fans, accusing them of tarnishing his reputation.
“The media conspired against me, and everyone said whatever they wanted. On camera, they criticized me, but when they saw me, they pretended to like me,” he remarked.
Comparing Himself to Shatta Wale
Gyan likened his outspoken nature to that of Ghanaian singer Shatta Wale, known for his candid demeanor and controversies.
“I am like Shatta Wale. People see us as controversial, but they like us because we speak the truth. When I come into your life, it is a blessing, and when I leave, it feels like a curse,” Gyan asserted.
He also addressed the public reaction to personal matters, including his marriage, calling it harsh and hypocritical.
“Evil People Tarnish Ghana’s Reputation”
Gyan didn’t hold back in blaming some individuals for Ghana’s struggles in football.
“There are evil people in this country. That’s why we can’t win anything. They have tarnished Ghana’s reputation with dirt,” he said.
A Legacy Beyond the Controversies
Despite his struggles, Gyan remains Ghana’s all-time leading scorer, with 51 goals in 107 appearances. Reflecting on his career, he expressed both pride and heartbreak over his contributions to Ghanaian football.
READ MORE:Themba Gorimbo exposes cousins who celebrated His UFC loss
Gyan’s heartfelt revelations have sparked conversations among fans and pundits, shedding light on the challenges faced by football icons both on and off the field.