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Former Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan has acknowledged the challenges he faced in deciding to join the Chinese Super League.
After a successful stint with Al Ain in the UAE, Gyan moved to Shanghai SIPG in July 2015 on a lucrative two-year contract, reportedly earning £227,000 per week.
However, injuries hampered his time in China, restricting him to just 28 appearances and eight goals from 2015 to 2016.
In an interview with Wontumi Radio, the now 39-year-old admitted that the decision was tough but ultimately felt it was the right move after consulting with his family.
“It was a difficult decision for me, but I spoke to everyone around me, and we concluded it was the best move,” he said.
Reflecting on the outcome, Gyan added, “Fortunately, it turned out well for me, and we’ve been able to establish businesses that employ Ghanaians.”
Throughout his career, Gyan also played for Liberty Professionals, Stade Rennes, Udinese, Sunderland, Kayserispor, North East United, and Legon Cities.
He remains Ghana’s all-time leading goalscorer with 51 goals and Africa’s top scorer in World Cup history with six goals.
Gyan retired from professional football in June 2023, leaving behind a legacy of 221 club goals in over 400 appearances.
His achievements include BBC African Footballer of the Year, being named in the CAF Team of the Year on three occasions, and winning the Ghana Football Awards Player of the Decade.