Asamoah Gyan was overcome with emotion as he announced his retirement from football on Tuesday and was consoled by former Ivory Coast captain Didier Drogba.
A video of the touching moment quickly went viral on social media, demonstrating the two African football legends’ strong bond.
Asamoah Gyan broke down in tears after announcing his retirement from football. Didier Drogba showed his support by offering the former Ghana captain a hug.pic.twitter.com/l8P4lICxOj
— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) June 20, 2023
Gyan made his debut as a teenager back in 2003 and has now decided to hang up his boots in 2023, having amassed an impressive tally of over 250 goals throughout his career.
He made the announcement while speaking at The 30th Afreximbank Annual Meetings at the Accra International Conference Centre on Tuesday evening.
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He said, “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 hand the jersey and boots in glory as I officially retire from active football.”
The 37-year-old’s retirement brings to an end a remarkable journey that saw him become Ghana’s all-time leading scorer, with 51 goals in 109 appearances.
He played in three FIFA World Cup tournaments for Ghana, including a pivotal role in their historic run to the quarterfinals in the 2010 edition in South Africa. He scored six goals, the most by any African player.