Former Kotoko skipper Ismail Abdul Ganiyu joins Iraqi side Al Talaba SC

Former Asante Kotoko captain Ismail Abdul Ganiyu has joined Iraqi Premier League club Al Talaba SC in a year deal.

The defender parted ways with the Ghanaian champions at the end of last season after some disagreement.

Ganiyu’s year contract with the Iraqi side includes an option for an extension.

He began the pre-season with the 2021/22 Ghana Premier League champions, but he was eventually left off the list of club travellers for the club’s Sudan tour.

Prior to terminating his contract, which was due to expire in 2023, Kotoko announced that he would be relieved of captaincy duties, with Richard Boadu taking his place.

The 2016 Ghana Premier League winner with Wa All Stars (now Legon Cites) joined the Ghanaian giants from Karela United in 2018 on a three-year deal.

His move to Iraq marks a new challenge for the 26-year-old, who once earned Black Stars call up under coach CK Akonnor.