‘It was always my dream’ – Asamoah Gyan on his Premier League journey
23rd January 2026
Former Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan has reflected on his move to the Premier League, describing it as the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition inspired by watching fellow Ghanaian Tony Yeboah light up English football.
Gyan earned his high-profile transfer to Sunderland in 2010 following a memorable performance at the World Cup in South Africa, where his goals helped Ghana reach the quarter-finals. The Black Stars’ hero joined the Black Cats from French side Stade Rennais for a then club-record fee of £13m.
The striker made an instant impression at the Stadium of Light, scoring on his debut against Wigan Athletic on 11 September after coming off the bench to replace Danny Welbeck, quickly endearing himself to Sunderland supporters.
Speaking in a recent interview with former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand, Gyan said the chance to play in England’s top flight had always been central to his career ambitions.
“It has always been my dream to play in the Premier League,” he said. “Watching Tony Yeboah, I said to myself that I want to play in the Premier League, so my mind was made up. I had the option to stay at Stade Rennais, but I told them this is my time to go.”
He added: “Coming in, I was ready to deliver, and on my debut, I scored, and everything started getting better.”
Gyan went on to score 10 goals in 34 appearances for Sunderland, becoming a key figure in their attack. However, in a move that surprised many, he left the club on loan to UAE side Al Ain in September 2011, a switch that was later made permanent.
Now retired from international football, Gyan remains one of Ghana’s most celebrated players, with his Premier League chapter standing as a defining moment in a distinguished career.