Asamoah Gyan, a former Sunderland striker, has officially retired from professional football at the age of 37. An icon in the Premier League, Gyan had an impressive career spanning two decades. He shot to fame in 2010 during the World Cup in South Africa when his excellent performances caught the attention of European clubs. Sunderland soon signed him up for a then-record club transfer fee of £12 million and Gyan marked his debut with a goal. He played for Sunderland between 2010 and 2012, becoming a fan favorite due to his attacking prowess and outlandish dance celebrations.
Gyan’s career dwindled following his departure from Ghanaian Premier League side Legon Cities in 2021. He did not appear on the pitch for the next two years, leading to his official retirement announcement this week. At his press conference, Gyan announced his plans to pursue a career in coaching and scouting. He thanked his family, colleagues, and everyone who had played a role in his footballing career, adding that he had enjoyed every moment of it.
The striker is most famous for his quarter-final penalty miss at the 2010 World Cup, where he was handed the ball after Luis Suarez saved a goal with his hand in the dying minutes of extra time and was subsequently sent off. Gyan missed the spot-kick and Uruguay advanced at Ghana’s expense.
In a social media statement, Gyan said, It is time to hand the jersey and boots in glory as I officially retire from active football. He also thanked his beloved country Ghana, adding that he would support and encourage young talents in the field of coaching, football business, and scouting. Despite his retirement, fans worldwide will always remember Asamoah Gyan as one of the best Premier League icons of his era.
