Statement: GFA mourns death of C.K. Gyamfi

It is with consternation and great sadness that we learnt of the passing of the legendary Ghanaian coach and footballer Nana Charles Kumi Gyamfi in Accra this morning.

Today is a day of great sadness for all football fans considering how his personal and professional career touched the lives of many people not only in Ghana but across the continent.

C.K. Gyamfi was the first African footballer to play in Germany, when he joined Fortuna Dusseldorf in 1960. He also played for both Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko.

As a coach, he successfully coached the Black Stars to three African Cup of Nations titles (1963, 1965 & 1982) which makes him one of the most successful African coaches.

The GFA is immensely hurt by the loss of such a talented footballer and coach who shaped the lives and careers of many Ghanaian footballers and coaches.

He was responsible for bringing finesse to Ghana football with his unique coaching methods, one of the most important landmarks in the history of the game in the country. We always held him in great esteem and admired his extraordinary character.

He worked tenaciously for Ghana football and even in his old age he did not shy away from offering his wisdom for the development of the game in the country.

What we will remember most of all will be his great sense of commitment, his courage and his desire to safeguard Ghana football and its values for future generations as well as his golden words of wisdom.

The GFA wishes to extend its deepest sympathy to the family of Nana Gyamfi and most importantly to his wife, children and friends. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.