Stephen Appiah reveals why Juventus sold him

Erstwhile Black Stars skipper Stephen Appiah has opened up on why Juventus sold him.

The talented midfielder joined Juventus in 2004 after a successful loan spell at the club the year before. Appiah was an integral member of the Juventus side under the tutelage of Italian manager Fabio Capello.

In spite of his outstanding performances, the former Black Stars skipper was shockingly sold to Turkish giants Fenerbahce in 2005.

According to Appiah, accepting to represent Ghana at the 2004 Olympic Games in Greece was the predominant reason why he sold by Juventus.

“Juventus had received a communication from Ghana before the Olympics, but the managers did not seem willing to let me go – Appiah explains – I told him that I would think about it, they asked me the next day by calling me in after the training session,” Appiah told KOD on Instagram.

“I was worried, I was afraid that for the slightest mistake I could lose my contract. But I said I was still thinking about it. If I had said that I had not left, I would have had problems with my country. So I took courage and one day I told him I was leaving.”

“They asked me why, I replied that I was happy to play for Juventus but that my country came first. On my return, the problems began. I lost my place in the team and had to look for a new accommodation, fortunately I agreed with Fenerbahce.”

Appiah does not regret his choice:” I never did, if Ghana has arrived where it is, it is also thanks to our contribution.”

Ghana though were knocked out of the competition in the group stage. Stephen Appiah was on target in Ghana’s first two games, against Italy and Paraguay. Appiah was also named in the Olympic football All-star team.