Former Black Stars captain, Asamoah Gyan has compared himself to dancehall musician, Shatta Wale in an emotional social media rant.

The legendary Sunderland striker held a live Instagram session to air his frustration about the mistreatment he received from Ghanaians and journalists during and after his football career.

Asamoah Gyan fumed as he spoke about the attempts by many individuals to create issues between himself and his Black Stars captain successor, Andre Dede Ayew.

The former Ghanaian footballer accused the local media of creating an agenda to downplay his remarkable achievements in the Senior national team.

During his Instagram live session, Asamoah Gyan compared himself to Shatta Wale, claiming they are both misunderstood and seen as “controversial” by many critics in Ghana.

The former Black Stars captain said he had a close relationship with the dancehall musician and that they both speak the truth.

“I am like Shatta Wale. People see us as controversial but like us because we tell the truth. Me and Shatta Wale are linked. I’ve known him for long.”
Asamoah Gyan

Asamoah Gyan noted that just like Shatta Wale, he humbly acknowledges and respects veterans and colleagues he surpassed during his football career whenever he sees them in public.

The retired footballer said his colleagues do not reciprocate the respect he accords them and try to demean him.

“I have achieved more than some of my colleagues, but when I see them, I respect them. But because I respect them, they think they can command me around. I will let you know I have achieved more than you. It is the respect I have for you.
“That is how Shatta Wale is. Shatta Wale will bow down when he sees Reggie Rockstone and the people ahead of him. It doesn’t mean he is stupid. He will insult the same people if they say disrespectful things about him.”
Asamoah Gyan

Asamoah Gyan added that he and Shatta Wale were born with the natural gift of voicing their displeasure on issues and that people who have tried to sabotage them have all failed.

Asamoah Gyan On NDC’s Policy

The former Ghanaian football star expressed skepticism about the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s proposed 24-hour economy policy, describing it as far from a new idea.

Asamoah Gyan pointed out that several essential services in Ghana, such as police stations, hospitals, and fuel stations, already operate around the clock.

“It already exists. Police stations, hospitals, and filling stations already operate on a 24-hour basis. So, if the government says ’24-hour economy,’ they should say that they will improve it. It’s not a new policy.”
Asamoah Gyan

Gyan urged the newly-elected government to focus on enhancing these existing 24-hour operations instead of presenting the policy as something new.

He emphasized the importance of clarity and tangible improvements, calling on the NDC to clearly outline their intentions and ensure the policy genuinely benefits the people of Ghana.

The 24-hour economy policy was a major pillar of the NDC’s campaign and significantly contributed to their return to power.

Supporters of the policy argue that it aims to boost economic activity, create jobs, and foster business opportunities, particularly within the informal sector.

However, Gyan’s critique highlights the need for the government to provide more specific details and focus on meaningful reforms rather than rhetoric.

Once a member of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign team, Gyan has since distanced himself from partisan politics to concentrate on philanthropy and youth development.

Gyan’s remarks remind us that while the concept of a 24-hour economy is not new, much work remains to improve and expand its implementation for the benefit of all citizens.