Desailly’s statue unveiled at Lizzy Sports Complex

A bronze sculpture of retired Ghanaian footballer and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Marcel Desailly was unveiled last Friday at the Lizzy Sports Complex in Accra.

The bust sculpture by acclaimed Irish sculptor, Dr Gerry Waldron, was in recognition of Desailly’s achievements  as winner of the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the 2000 European Championship with the French national team, as well as the impact he has  made on the lives of children in various ambassadorial roles.

The bust was unveiled at a glitzy ceremony attended by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Mahama Ayariga, former Ghana Football Association Chairman Alhaji MND Jawula and the Black Stars Management Committee chairman, George Afriyie. 

Mr Ayariga, who unveiled the bust alongside Desailly, paid glowing tribute to the former Chelsea defender for his support for the development of football in the country while urging other retired Ghanaian footballers to do same.

George Afriyie described Desailly as an “example of a true sportsman“, for ensuring that sports infrastructure is given the needed attention in the country.

“I feel very humbled by Dr Waldron’s sculpture and your tributes but my objective is to develop sports not just football, I don’t have the expertise to develop the economy of the country but I will do my best for sports development,” Desailly stated.