Joe Gyau signs with MSV Duisburg

American attacker Joe Gyau signed with 2. Bundesliga club MSV Duisburg, first reported by Steven Goff of The Washington Post.

“MSV is a traditional club,” the 25-year old told Die Zebras’ official website (through the magic of Google Translate). “It’s the right decision for me to take the next step and play in a good team.”

His new manager Iliyia Gruev described Gyau as “a very exciting newcomer who brings a freshness to our attack.”

Duisburg finished the 2017-2018 season in a respectable sixth place, with 48 points from 34 matches.

Gyau began his professional career with Hoffenheim before spending time on loan at St. Pauli. He came very close to breaking through at Borussia Dortmund, under the dual-tutelage of Jurgen Klopp and David Wagner. He made one appearance with the first team in September of 2014, but couldn’t overcome his long-term injury issues. Since leaving BVB, the Tampa, Florida-native has spent a productive year-and-a-half with 3. Liga club SG Sonnenhof Großaspach. This past season, he tallied five goals and four assists in 30 league appearances.

Gyau earned two caps with the U.S. senior national team, both in 2014. While it’s unlikely he will be called into the upcoming roster, he’s definitely a player to watch.

Once upon a time, Gyau (along with fellow Hoffenheim signee Charles Renken – circa almost a decade ago) was considered a top prospect, but had his promising career derailed by seemingly never-ending, infuriating injury issues. It’s difficult to doubt anyone who continues to work hard and bounce back (especially a player who will just barely be on “the right” side of 30 during the 2022 World Cup), so don’t be surprised if he ends up back in the Bundesliga or on the national team in the future.