Former Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan has reflected on his decision to join Shanghai SIPG in the Chinese Super League in 2015.
Following a successful stint with Al Ain in the UAE, Gyan signed a lucrative two-year contract with Shanghai SIPG, reportedly earning £227,000 per week.
Despite the financial benefits, Gyan’s time in China was marred by injuries. He made only 28 appearances and scored eight goals between 2015 and 2016.
In a recent interview with Wontumi Radio, the 39-year-old admitted the move was challenging but ultimately felt it was the right choice after consulting his family.
“It was a difficult decision for me, but I spoke to everyone around me, and we decided it was the best move for me,” Gyan stated. He added that the move had positive outcomes, allowing him to establish companies that now employ Ghanaians.
Gyan’s illustrious career included stints with various clubs across Europe, Asia, and Africa. He remains Ghana’s all-time leading goalscorer with 51 goals and holds the record for most World Cup goals by an African player with six.
The striker retired in June 2023, having scored 221 club goals in over 400 appearances. His accolades include BBC African Footballer of the Year, three-time CAF Team of the Year selection, and Ghana Football Awards Player of the Decade.
