Ghana Legend Asamoah Gyan Officialy Retires From Football At 37

It has been two years since Gyan played active football for Ghana-based Legon Cities but feels now is the time to bring an illustrious career to an end.

At club level, Gyan had a nomadic career, starting out at local side Liberty Professionals before representing Italian sides Modena and Udinese in Italy.

Stade Rennes, Sunderland, Al Ain, Shanghai SIPG, Al Ahli Dubai, Kayserispor and Indian side North East United all witnessed Gyan’s talents at first hand.

It was at international level where Gyan’s legendary status is forever cemented as his 109 caps and 51 goals are all national records in Ghana.

Gyan played at three FIFA World Cups and is Africa’s highest goalscorer at the tournament with six goals in total.

At the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, Gyan scored an extra-time winner against the USA to book Ghana’s place in the quarterfinals for the first time but missed a late penalty against Uruguay that would have sealed a semi-final berth for the Black Stars.

In a statement posted to social media, 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.

"But then again, I am minded by views shared by great businessmen and sporting gurus, 'you do not leave your love', together with my management, we will continue encouraging and pushing young talents."

"I will put my experience and knowledge to use in the field of coaching, football business and scouting.

"I want to thank my beloved country Ghana, my family, my colleagues from school, those from colts and Blackstar from 2002 to date, club mates, coaches and everybody who has played a role in my career as a footballer, I say thank you."