Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has expressed strong support for former Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kwesi Nyantakyi, blaming his removal on sabotage and the self-serving motives of some within the football community.
In an Instagram Live session on Thursday, Gyan reflected on the decline of Ghanaian football since Nyantakyi’s departure, praising the ex-GFA boss and former CAF Vice President as a unifying leader who was deeply committed to the sport’s development.
Gyan suggested that Nyantakyi’s downfall was orchestrated by individuals who tried to manipulate the football system but were opposed by Nyantakyi’s steadfast leadership.
His remarks have sparked ongoing debates about leadership and the need for reform within Ghanaian football.
“When Nyantakyi was GFA president, just look at where Ghana football was. He wasn’t someone who allowed internal conflicts or selfish agendas. If anyone approached him with selfish motives, he rejected it. That’s why they wanted him out. Have you seen what’s become of Ghana football since his removal?” Gyan said.
Gyan also highlighted Nyantakyi’s significant achievements, particularly his rise to CAF Vice President, which solidified his status as a major figure in African football.
He argued that Nyantakyi’s leadership brought much-needed stability and direction to Ghanaian football, and lamented that the sport has seen a notable decline since Nyantakyi’s exit in 2018.
The former striker also criticized those who opposed Nyantakyi, accusing them of prioritizing personal interests over the progress of the sport, which has led to its current stagnation.
“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.
“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.”
Nyantakyi served as the president of the Ghana Football Association from December 30, 2005, until June 7, 2018.
