French-Ghanaian defender Denis Appiah says goodbye to AS Saint-Étienne

Denis Appiah has confirmed he is leaving AS Saint-Étienne after four years at the club, bringing an end to his spell in the Forez region following his arrival in 2022.

The French-Ghanaian right-back, who joined ASSE from FC Nantes, made 106 appearances for the club across all competitions during his time with Les Verts. His stint included one season in Ligue 1 during the 2024–2025 campaign.

The 34-year-old announced his departure on Thursday through a lengthy message shared on social media, reflecting on his experience and his connection with the club and its supporters.

“Green supporters, Saint-Étienne friends, the time has come for me to say goodbye. Wearing the green jersey was one of the experiences I absolutely wanted to have in my career.

I had the privilege of doing it more than 100 times. I tried, as best I could, to live up to these colors and this crest,” wrote Appiah.

During his spell at the club, Appiah became a regular feature in the squad, contributing both in Ligue 2 and during Saint-Étienne’s brief return to the top flight. Last season alone, he played 17 league matches as well as two play-off fixtures.

In his farewell message, Appiah also reflected on his personal ambitions when he first arrived at the club, highlighting both achievements and disappointment during his time in green.

“When I arrived, I set myself several goals: to help the club avoid relegation from Ligue 2, to get back to Ligue 1, to experience a derby at Geoffroy-Guichard, and above all, to win it.

I was fortunate enough to achieve all of that. My only regret is not having been able to help the club stay in Ligue 1. It’s a disappointment I share with everyone who loves ASSE. I sincerely wish the club all the best, hoping to see them quickly return to the top flight.”

Appiah’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in his career, during which he surpassed the milestone of 100 appearances and became part of a squad that experienced both promotion success and top-flight challenges.

AS Saint-Étienne now move forward without one of their experienced defenders as they continue their efforts to return to Ligue 1.