Ever wonder what happens to our beloved football stars when their playing days are over? For some Ghanaian football legends, post-retirement life has been anything but smooth. Legal battles and financial losses have plagued several stars who once basked in wealth and adoration. From failed business ventures to contentious relationships, let's dive into the stories of five Ghanaian football stars who have faced significant financial setbacks due to court rulings.
Sulley Ali Muntari
In 2019, a Milan court ordered Ghanaian football legend Sulley Muntari to pay over $100,000 to Italian businessman Rodrigo Renato Gianno. Muntari had agreed to settle the debt but defaulted, prompting Gianno to take legal action in Ghana to enforce the payment. The debt arose during Muntari's time in Milan, where Gianno handled his travel bookings. This case serves as a stark reminder of how quickly financial disputes can escalate.
Asamoah Gyan
Asamoah Gyan’s financial troubles stem from two major legal battles. First, his prolonged and messy annulment from his ex-wife, Gifty Gyan, led to significant losses. The High Court ordered Gyan to transfer a house in the UK, a four-bedroom house in Spintex, Accra, a gas filling station, and two cars to Gifty. On top of that, Gyan has been paying GH₵25,000 in alimony. These court rulings highlight how personal relationships can deeply impact financial stability.
Arthur Moses
In 2014, former Ghana international Arthur Moses found himself in a turbulent divorce from his ex-wife, Patience Arthur. After months of court proceedings, the Supreme Court of Ghana ruled in favor of Patience, awarding her GHS 1 million (about $160,000) in alimony and several of Moses' properties, including houses, cars, and businesses. This case underscores the high stakes involved in marital disputes for high-profile individuals.
Michael Essien
Michael Essien, known for his stellar career with Chelsea, recently faced significant financial loss. A report from June 15 revealed that two of Essien’s properties are set to be auctioned to pay off debts owed to various individuals and institutions. One of these properties is estimated to be worth between $20 million and $30 million. This situation illustrates how even the most successful athletes can encounter financial difficulties.
John Mensah
Former Ghana captain John Mensah divorced his ex-wife, Henrietta, in 2014. The Accra High Court ordered Mensah to make certain financial commitments and transfer properties to her. However, in 2022, Henrietta revealed that Mensah allegedly sold off the properties and stopped making alimony payments. This ongoing saga highlights the complexities and long-term consequences of divorce settlements.
These stories remind us that life off the pitch can be as challenging as life on it. While these football stars once enjoyed immense success and adulation, their post-career paths have been fraught with legal and financial hurdles. It’s a sobering lesson in the importance of financial planning and the unpredictable nature of life after football.
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