Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has finally found a sense of appreciation from Ghanaians after being eulogised by Members of Parliament following his retirement announcement last week.
The veteran striker, who ended his illustrious two-decade-long career, has received overwhelming love and admiration since making his decision public.
Gyan, who holds the record for the most goals scored by a Ghanaian player with an impressive tally of 51 goals, also boasts the record for the highest number of goals scored by an African in the history of the World Cup.
Given his remarkable achievements, it was no surprise that his retirement stirred discussions in Parliament, with parliamentarians taking turns paying tribute to the legend.
During the parliamentary session, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, the Majority Chief Whip, went so far as to suggest that Gyan’s career should be studied in schools.
The recognition and honour bestowed upon Gyan in Parliament prompted him to reflect on his past sentiments. Gyan was formally invited to meet with the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, where he expressed his gratitude for the recognition he received.
I honored an invitation by the speaker of parliament of Ghana Hon. Alban Bagbin & Hon Frank Annor Dompreh. The invitation was to congratulate me on my successful career , my service to Ghana and on my retirement from active football.
We had a great conversation on the way… pic.twitter.com/WNswPXOZkQ— ASAMOAH GYAN (@ASAMOAH_GYAN3) June 27, 2023
He said, “Before, I would say I had not been celebrated enough because there were lots of disrespect, and I felt like I was one of those individuals who put Ghana on the map. The masses can confirm that. But seeing what went on in Parliament, I am now beginning to understand, I’m beginning to feel appreciated by Ghanaians.”
“I don’t really care about what people say, but Parliament has confirmed, and I’m sure the masses also know in their hearts that I should be celebrated. I always say the numbers don’t lie.”
With a career total of over 250 goals, Gyan’s remarkable contribution to Ghanaian football has undoubtedly left an indelible mark.
