Soccer News of Saturday, 1 October 2011

Source: mtnfootball.com

Asamoah Gyan wants to learn Arabic to aid Al-Ain success

Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan says he is determined to learn Arabic to help him adapt to life in United Arab Emirates.

The 25-year-old moved to Al Ain early this month is what emerged as a surprise transfer after the summer transfer window had closed at the end of August.

The Gulf is a different territory for Gyan who has been playing in Europe since 17.

He believes learning Arabic can help him have a successful season-long loan spell.

“There are many foreigners here too and because I speak French and Italian I am able to have good conversion and communication with people here from all backgrounds,” he told MTNFootball.com

“Learning Arabic will surely make me a better person and will expand my horizon.”

Gyan who debuted for his new club last Friday as a second half substitute in a 2-1 win over Dubai FC in a Cup match.

He says life has been fun in his early days in the Emirates.

“Even before I came here the basic words to greet people like ‘As Salamu Alaikum’ I knew already because in my country Ghana there are many Muslims who greet like this and I have many Muslim friends.

“I have learnt new words like ”Yalla” which means ‘let’s go’. (laughs) I hope I can learn more as long as I am here.”