by Silas Boahene | Jun 27, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder Elisha Owusu has renewed his contract with AJ Auxerre, extending his stay until 2027 after playing a vital role in the club’s promotion back to the French Ligue 1.
Despite Auxerre’s relegation at the end of the 2022/23 season, Owusu’s exceptional performances were instrumental in their successful campaign in Ligue 2. His contributions were key to Auxerre winning the Ligue 2 trophy and securing promotion to the top tier for the 2024/25 season.
“Great news for AJA: Elisha Owusu has extended his contract until June 2027! Our vice-captain, a major architect of our rise to Ligue 1 with 33 matches played and an unforgettable goal securing victory in the derby against Troyes (2-1), is now tied to the club’s future,” stated AJ Auxerre.
Owusu joined Auxerre in January 2023 but was initially sidelined by a serious injury, preventing him from playing in Ligue 1. However, his determination and positive attitude led to a strong comeback, significantly contributing to the team’s promotion campaign. His impressive performances also earned him a spot in the Ghana national team for the last African Cup of Nations, where he played alongside teammate Gideon Mensah.
The midfielder’s influence at Auxerre has been substantial, and the club has announced his role as vice-captain for the upcoming season. “This contract extension symbolizes the club’s ambition to perform at the highest level, and the entire AJA is delighted that the journey with Elisha continues,” read the official statement from AJ Auxerre.
Owusu’s extended stay with Auxerre underscores the club’s commitment to maintaining strong performances in Ligue 1. As a regular figure in the Ghana national team, Owusu’s continued presence is expected to bolster Auxerre’s ambitions, providing the team with the leadership and skill necessary to compete at the highest level.
by Silas Boahene | Jun 27, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Former Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan has shed light on his decision to join Legon Cities instead of Asante Kotoko. The 38-year-old made a notable return to the local league in 2020, signing with Legon Cities after a 17-year absence since leaving Liberty Professionals.
Despite being an ardent supporter of Asante Kotoko and frequently expressing his desire to play for the Porcupine Warriors before retiring, Gyan chose Legon Cities as a crucial stepping stone towards his ultimate goal.
“I was clear that I would play for Kotoko before retirement. I’m a huge Kotoko fan. It was between Legon Cities and Asante Kotoko while I was heading back to Ghana. I decided to remain in Accra and play for Legon Cities since I had a few things to attend to in Accra. I reached an agreement with Legon Cities that I would not travel to make a trip with the team for games far from Accra, and they agreed,” Gyan explained on UTV.
He further elaborated, “At some point, I was bombarded with injuries and was unable to maintain my weight. So I became frustrated and decided to let it go. I wanted to use Legon Cities as a stepping stone to move to Kotoko. I wanted to play at Legon Cities and score some goals before joining Kotoko because it’s
by Silas Boahene | Jun 27, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Asante Kotoko head coach, Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum, has successfully undergone surgery following a short illness, the club has announced.
Currently in recovery, Coach Ogum is expected to rejoin the team once he has fully recuperated.
“Our head coach, Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum, has undergone successful surgery after a short illness. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to having him back soon. GET WELL SOON, Coach!” the club posted on their official X account.
In the meantime, the Porcupine Warriors are set to begin early training in preparation for the Democracy Cup against rivals Hearts of Oak, following a challenging season.
The Kumasi-based club has released 18 players as part of a significant roster overhaul and is actively seeking new talent to build a competitive team for the upcoming campaign.
The former Ghanaian champions concluded last season in sixth place.
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by Silas Boahene | Jun 27, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian defender Dennis Odoi has started training with Royal Antwerp shortly after completing his transfer from rivals Club Brugge. The veteran defender signed a two-year deal with the former champions during the summer transfer window.
Just twenty-four hours after finalizing the move, Odoi joined his new teammates as the Reds commenced their pre-season preparations for the 2024/25 season.
Odoi, with his extensive experience in the Belgian topflight—having played for Anderlecht, KRC Genk, and Club Brugge—is expected to play a crucial role at Royal Antwerp.
The 36-year-old missed Ghana’s World Cup qualifiers earlier this month against Mali and the Central African Republic due to a minor injury. However, he has since recovered and is set for the upcoming Jupiler Pro League campaign.
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by Silas Boahene | Jun 27, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Dutch club VVV-Venlo has signed 19-year-old Emmanuel Gyamfi on a season-long loan deal from FC Schalke 04, facilitated by their partnership with the German club.
The German-born midfielder of Ghanaian descent has impressed VVV’s scouting team with his standout performances for Schalke’s second team. Head coach John Lammers expressed his excitement about Gyamfi’s arrival and the benefits of their collaboration with Schalke.
“We’ve been following Emmanuel’s progress and are thrilled to have him join our team. Our partnership with Schalke has made this possible, and we’re eager to see him grow and develop with us,” Lammers stated.
Gyamfi is equally enthusiastic about the move, viewing it as an excellent opportunity to gain experience and enhance his skills. “I feel good being here, and I’m excited to contribute to the team’s success. I hope to play many minutes and become a better player,” he said.
The loan deal underscores the growing partnership between VVV and Schalke, creating opportunities for young talents like Gyamfi to shine. With Gyamfi’s addition, VVV aims to bolster its squad and make a strong push in the upcoming season.
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