Asamoah Gyan, former captain of the Ghana national football team, has addressed the persistent rumors of a rivalry with current Black Stars captain Andre Ayew.
According to Gyan, the reported tension between them was artificially created by external forces with personal agendas.
In an Instagram Live session on Thursday, Gyan spoke candidly about his relationship with Ayew, attributing any perceived conflict to “brainwashing” that served the interests of certain individuals.
“Andre is a good person and has genuine affection for me,” Gyan said. “But he’s been misled, and that’s what has fueled this so-called rivalry. I don’t view myself as a rival to anyone.”
The rumors of discord between the two players intensified after Ayew succeeded Gyan as Black Stars captain in 2019.
The change in leadership led to widespread speculation that the switch sparked animosity between the two.
Gyan, who retired from international football in 2023, has a history of addressing controversies head-on, including his infamous penalty miss against Uruguay during the 2010 World Cup.
He has frequently used social media to set the record straight on issues involving his career and teammates.
Gyan expressed his desire to move beyond the issue, stressing the importance of unity and collaboration within the national team.