by Silas Boahene | Jul 3, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has revealed that his transition from Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to the Chinese Super League was a challenging decision, despite his successful spell in the UAE.
Gyan, who had impressed with Al Ain, embarked on a significant career move in July 2015 by joining Shanghai SIPG on a lucrative two-year deal, earning a weekly salary of £227,000.
Speaking to Wontumi Radio, the 39-year-old acknowledged the difficulty of the decision. “It was a tough choice for me, but I consulted with my family and friends, and together we concluded it was the right move for me,” Gyan explained. “Fortunately, it turned out to be a beneficial decision, and it has also enabled us to establish businesses that employ Ghanaians.”
Prior to his move to China, Gyan’s transfer from Sunderland in the English Premier League to Al Ain had raised eyebrows due to his impressive performance in England’s top league.
Throughout his illustrious career, Gyan has played for clubs such as Liberty Professionals, Stade Rennes, Udinese, and Sunderland. He also had spells with Kayserispor, North East United, and Legon Cities before retiring in June 2023.
Gyan remains Ghana’s all-time leading goalscorer with 51 goals and holds the distinction of being Africa’s highest goalscorer in the history of the World Cup.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 3, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian winger Winfred Amoah has officially joined Austrian second division club SKN St. Polten on a two-year contract, confirmed by Sportblog247.com.
Amoah, who was born in Austria, completed the move to St. Polten as a free agent following the expiration of his contract with DSV Leoben.
Known for his versatility on either wing, Amoah had an impressive season with DSV Leoben, registering five goals and eight assists across 30 appearances.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new chapter in his career, Amoah highlighted that St. Polten’s ambitions align perfectly with his own professional goals. He commended the club’s leadership for their convincing approach, which affirmed his decision to join.
Amoah is eligible to represent Ghana at the international level, with his father, Charles Amoah, being a former Ghanaian international player.
SKN St. Polten announced the signing on their official website, detailing that Amoah’s contract includes an option for an additional year, underscoring their confidence in his potential contributions.
The club expressed satisfaction in securing Amoah’s services, believing his skills and experience will bolster their squad significantly for the upcoming season.
As preparations continue for the new campaign, Amoah is poised to make a notable impact on St. Polten’s performance on the field.
3.5
by Silas Boahene | Jul 3, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder Richard Boadu has embarked on a new chapter in his career as he joins his Libyan club, Al-Ahli Benghazi, for mid-season training in Italy’s capital, Rome.
Boadu’s arrival in Italy signals a pivotal moment in his career as he prepares with Al-Ahli Benghazi for the championship round of the Libyan Premier League season, promising an exciting challenge ahead.
The midfielder’s move to Italy represents a significant step towards establishing himself in European football.
His skills and experience will be crucial for Al-Ahli Benghazi’s ambitions, and the mid-season training camp provides an ideal platform for him to refine his game for the remainder of the season.
During their stay in Italy, the team will engage in friendly matches and intensive training sessions aimed at enhancing their fitness levels and tactical acumen.
Boadu’s active participation in these activities will facilitate his seamless integration into the team’s tactics and foster strong camaraderie with his teammates.
As a former captain of Asante Kotoko, Boadu has been instrumental for Al-Ahli Benghazi throughout the regular season, contributing significantly over 18 matches.
The championship round will feature the top six teams from the regular season, including Al Ahly Tripoli, Al-Nasr Benghazi, Al Hilal Benghazi, Asswehly, and Al Madina, promising a fiercely competitive conclusion to the season.
3.5
by Silas Boahene | Jul 3, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian defender Nathaniel Adjei bid an emotional farewell to his former club Hammarby IF following his transfer to FC Lorient.
Adjei enjoyed a successful two-and-a-half-year stint with Hammarby before moving to FC Lorient on loan in January.
His stellar performances during the loan spell convinced FC Lorient to make the move permanent, making Adjei the most expensive player in the history of the Swedish Allsvenskan.
The 21-year-old took to social media to express his gratitude and bid farewell to his former club and teammates.
“Hello everyone. It’s been almost three years since I arrived at Hammarby.”
“My goal has always been to contribute to Hammarby’s growth and make it even more amazing than it already is, and that’s been my mission since the day I signed.”
“I’ve had many wonderful experiences as well as some challenges during my time at this wonderful club. Through it all, I’ve been supported by amazing fans at a fantastic club, both in good times and bad.”
“I will always cherish the support I received during my toughest moments.”
“It’s been a privilege to play, enjoy, and smile in a stadium as special as Tele2Arena, alongside our incredible fans.”
“I also want to thank all my teammates, the staff, and everyone who has always believed in me.”
“Today marks the end of a chapter in our lives that we will never forget. My love for Hammarby will last forever.”
Forza Bajen 💚🤍
During his time with Hammarby, Adjei scored 1 goal in 24 appearances for the club.
Following his move, Adjei featured in 15 matches for FC Lorient during the latter half of the French Ligue 1 season.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 3, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian winger Osman Bukari has commenced training with Austin FC after completing his move to Major League Soccer (MLS).
The 25-year-old, who joined Austin FC on a three-year deal as a designated player from Serbian champions Red Star Belgrade earlier this June, experienced delays in his arrival to Texas due to international commitments with the Black Stars during World Cup qualifiers.
Bukari received a warm welcome in Austin last week but missed the match against Sporting Kansas City.
The speedy winger joined his new teammates on Monday for training sessions in preparation for their upcoming fixture against New York City FC on Sunday.
“After my first practice, getting started and focused as usual. Alhamdulilah for everything,” Bukari shared on social media.
Formerly with KAA Gent, Bukari is anticipated to make his MLS debut against New York City FC, marking the beginning of his journey in the American soccer league.
