Emmanuel Gyasi, the dynamic Ghanaian winger, capped off an impressive season with Empoli FC by clinching the prestigious III Sauro Cappelli Award at the club’s end-of-year awards ceremony in May 2025.
The accolade, named in memory of Sauro Cappelli, a revered former Councilor of the Municipality of Empoli known for his dedication to the community and passion for the club, celebrates a player’s outstanding contributions both on and off the pitch.
Gyasi’s recognition underscores his pivotal role in Empoli’s campaign and his growing influence as a team member within the squad.
Gyasi, who joined Empoli in 2023 from Spezia, has been a revelation in Serie A, combining relentless work rate with moments of flair that have endeared him to fans.
During the 2024-25 season, the 31-year-old forward played a key role in Empoli’s mid-table finish, featuring 35 times in Serie A, contributing crucial goal creation and assists while showcasing importance to the team.
His standout performances included a match-winning brace against a top-tier opponent and consistent displays of tenacity that helped the team grind out results in tight fixtures.
Beyond statistics, Gyasi’s inherent leadership in the dressing room and his commitment to mentoring younger players were cited as defining factors in his award win.
The III Sauro Cappelli Award, now in its third iteration, holds deep significance for Empoli. Cappelli, a lifelong supporter of the club, was instrumental in fostering community ties and promoting youth development programs before his passing.
The award, voted on by a combination of fans, club officials, and local dignitaries, honors a player who embodies Cappelli’s values of dedication, humility, and service. Gyasi, with his tireless energy and off-field involvement in Empoli’s community initiatives, was a natural fit.
Gyasi’s win also marks a moment of pride for Ghanaian football, as he joins a growing list of African players making their mark in Europe’s top leagues. His journey from Palermo’s youth ranks to Serie A stardom has been one of perseverance, and this award cements his status as a role model for aspiring talents back home. As Empoli looks ahead to the next season, Gyasi’s leadership and flair will be central to their ambitions, with fans already buzzing about what their star man might achieve next.
In another award scheme, Emmanuel Gyasi was also awarded at the eighteenth edition of the Emiliano Del Rosso Award, a prestigious recognition established by the Unione Clubs Azzurri and the Desperados (club fans)
This award is held under the patronage of the Municipality of Empoli and involves the participation of Empoli Football Club.
