Legendary Ghana captain Stephen Appiah reveals Mohammed Gago’s role in his Serie A breakthrough

Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah has recounted a touching story of how fellow Ghanaian footballer Mohammed Gago played a key role in launching his career in Italy’s Serie A.

Appiah shared this heartfelt memory during his acceptance speech at the Emy Africa Awards in Accra, where he was honoured for his remarkable contributions to football.

The former Juventus midfielder revealed that during a friendly match, Gago faked an injury to give him an opportunity to impress Udinese Calcio’s coaches.

This pivotal moment led to Appiah securing his first professional contract with the Italian club, after joining from Accra Hearts of Oak.

In his speech, Appiah expressed deep gratitude to those who supported his journey, saying, “I would like to thank the founder of my team, Mighty Victory. I would also like to thank all the players I played with from under-14 to the Black Stars. I travelled to Italy as a guy from Chorkor who knew nothing about the Italian weather and cuisine. Yes, I was doing so well at Accra Hearts of Oak and got scouted by a scout from Italy. Gago Mohammed is the one who made everything possible. Every time I see him, I bow because I appreciate what he has done in my life.”

Appiah detailed the life-changing moment during the friendly game.

“I remember I was with the junior side and hadn’t signed my contract yet. The senior side played a friendly against Sturm Graz from Austria. In the 80th minute, Gago Mohammed faked an injury for me to have the chance and feel of the game. I came in and scored a goal from 25 yards, and the next day I was in the Italian newspapers.”

That goal was the turning point. Udinese’s coach was so impressed that the club finalized Appiah’s contract within two days.

“I called Gago Mohammed and said there is an article about me. I went to his house, and he explained that the coach had instructed the club to close my deal. After two days, I signed my first international contract,” he said.

Both Appiah and Gago went on to play for Udinese, becoming celebrated African football icons. Appiah later enjoyed successful stints with Brescia, Juventus, and Fenerbahçe and famously captained Ghana in its historic FIFA World Cup appearances in 2006 and 2010.

This story of camaraderie and selflessness underscores the profound impact of support and teamwork in achieving success.