Asamoah Gyan defends Kwesi Nyantakyi, alleges sabotage in his removal

Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has spoken out in defense of Kwesi Nyantakyi, the former president of the Ghana Football Association (GFA). Gyan suggested that Nyantakyi’s removal from office was the result of sabotage and self-serving agendas.

Nyantakyi, who also served as CAF 1st Vice President and a FIFA Executive Council member, lost his positions following the 2018 release of the 'Number 12' exposé.

In an emotional Instagram Live session, Gyan reflected on the state of Ghanaian football since Nyantakyi’s departure. He praised the former GFA president as a leader who fostered progress and unity within the sport.

“When Nyantakyi was the GFA president, look at where Ghana football was. Nyantakyi was never the kind of person who allowed internal bickering. He wouldn’t accept selfish agendas,” Gyan said.

Gyan argued that Nyantakyi’s unwillingness to conform to a culture of compliance with self-interested demands made him a target for those seeking to manipulate the system.

“If someone came to him with selfish reasons, he wouldn’t accept it. That’s why they wanted him out. Since his removal as GFA president, have you seen what has become of Ghana football?” Gyan questioned.

Highlighting Nyantakyi’s accomplishments, Gyan noted his significant influence in African football, including his rise to the position of CAF Vice President. He credited Nyantakyi with bringing stability and vision to Ghanaian football.

“Nyantakyi was leading us somewhere. He became CAF Vice President; one of the strongest people in African football. But because he wouldn’t entertain their selfish interests, they sabotaged him. They found a way to remove him from his role,” Gyan added.

Since Nyantakyi’s ousting in 2018 amid allegations of misconduct, Gyan believes Ghana football has faced a sharp decline. He accused critics of prioritizing their interests over the development of the sport, which he says has led to stagnation.

“People didn’t agree with how Nyantakyi was leading, but the truth is he was doing well. Look at where Ghana football was under his leadership, and look at it now. It’s clear who the problem was,” Gyan said.